Molt

usgb/məʊlt/
verb

When an animal loses its old feathers, fur, skin or shell to replace it with a new one.

The snake will molt its skin several times a year
Visual representation of "molt" - When an animal loses its old feathers, fur, skin or shell to replace it with a new one

Often appears as...

  • birds molt
  • snakes molt
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "molt"
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Cyclical Renewal

Molt signifies a recurring process for renewal in animals, hinting at natural cycles.

Illustration for Cyclical Renewal
Birds molt annually to renew their plumage.
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Natural Phenomenon

Molt is often used to describe a natural, biological process, not an artificial one.

Illustration for Natural Phenomenon
Watching a caterpillar molt into a chrysalis is fascinating.
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Specific Creatures

Not all animals molt, so it's mainly used with birds, reptiles, and arthropods.

Illustration for Specific Creatures
Did you know some spiders also molt?
Visual representation of the word "Molt"

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