ecdysis

noun

ec·​dy·​sis ˈek-də-səs How to pronounce ecdysis (audio)
plural ecdyses ˈek-də-ˌsēz How to pronounce ecdysis (audio)
: the act of molting or shedding an outer cuticular layer

Examples of ecdysis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Linear webs hang loosely on the wall, like residue from an autopsy surgeon’s scalpel, while snakelike shapes seem to be in the process of shedding their skin — ecdysis, as internal development outgrows its container. Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2022 With our once-unthreatened understanding of selfhood, family, and civic purpose now being scrutinized under the microscope of the mob, our culture is in a moment of ecdysis. Kayla Bartsch, National Review, 12 Aug. 2019 Growing larger causes spiders to molt, a process called ecdysis, Jo-Anne Sewlal, an arachnologist at the University of the West Indies, says via email. Liz Langley, National Geographic, 22 Apr. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ecdysis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek ékdysis "getting out, escape," from ekdýein "to take off, strip off," ekdýesthai "to strip oneself of, take off, get out of, escape" (from ec- ec- + dýein "to enter, make one's way into, [of clothing] get into, put on") + -sis -sis — more at adytum

First Known Use

circa 1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ecdysis was circa 1854

Dictionary Entries Near ecdysis

Cite this Entry

“Ecdysis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ecdysis. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

ecdysis

noun
ec·​dy·​sis ˈek-də-səs How to pronounce ecdysis (audio)
plural ecdyses -də-ˌsēz How to pronounce ecdysis (audio)
: the act of molting or shedding an outer cuticular layer (as in insects and crustaceans)

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