exuviation

/ˌɛksjuːviˈeɪʃən/

Definitions

1. noun

the process of shedding or casting off a skin, shell, or other outer covering, especially in insects undergoing metamorphosis

“The exuviation of the caterpillar into a butterfly was a magical transformation.”

Synonyms

  • ecdysis
  • moulting
  • shedding

Antonyms

  • encrustation
  • hardening