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

Unlike algae, which are lined with cell walls, lichen contain fungi lined with chitin, the same material that makes up the exoskeletons of insects. —Taylor Mitchell Brown, Scientific American, 25 Nov. 2025

Over time, Hypershell’s AI learns individual preferences and tendencies, so the exoskeleton evolves into a personalized system that automatically adapts to your unique movement. —Lisa Jhung, Outside, 20 Nov. 2025

Other mechanical features include USD forks, a mono rear shock, and an integrated exoskeleton to help ensure the bike can weather even the rockiest of rides. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 14 Nov. 2025

Lavender and chrysanthemum plants can deter lady beetles, and a sprinkle of diatomaceous earth can dry out exoskeletons. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 13 Nov. 2025

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