exoskeleton

noun

exo·​skel·​e·​ton ˌek-sō-ˈske-lə-tən 

1

: an external supportive covering of an animal (such as an arthropod)

2

: bony or horny parts of a vertebrate produced from epidermal tissues

3

: an artificial external supporting structure

exoskeletal

ˌek-sō-ˈske-lə-tᵊl 

adjective

Examples of exoskeleton in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Scientists also referenced research suggesting scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 10 Mar. 2026

Scientists referenced research suggesting that scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 10 Mar. 2026

The study also referenced research suggesting scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026

Diatomaceous earth is effective against most pests with exoskeletons, as well as slugs and snails. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for exoskeleton

• cytoskeleton
• gelatin
• skeleton

Kids Definition

exoskeleton

noun

exo·​skel·​e·​ton ˌek-sō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn 

: a hard supporting or protective structure (as of an insect, spider, or crustacean) on the outside of the body

Medical Definition

exoskeleton

noun

exo·​skel·​e·​ton ˌek-sō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn 

1

: an external supportive covering of an animal (as the system of sclerites covering the body of an insect) compare endoskeleton

2

: bony or horny parts (as nails, hooves, or scales) of a vertebrate produced from epidermal tissues

exoskeletal

-ət-ᵊl 

adjective