Molting Meaning in English
word · lemma: molt
Definition
Molting is when an animal loses its old skin, feathers, or shell so that new ones can grow. It is common in birds, insects, reptiles, and some other animals.
Usage & Nuances
'Molting' is a biological term, mostly used for birds, reptiles, insects, and crustaceans. Typically appears in scientific or animal care contexts. Not used for mammals. Collocations: 'in the molting season', 'start molting', 'undergoing molting'. Don't confuse with 'shedding' (used also for mammals).
Example Sentences
The snake is molting its old skin.
basic
Many birds start molting in the summer.
basic
During molting, the crab hides from predators.
basic
After molting, the butterfly’s new wings are still soft.
natural
You can often find bits of skin left behind from a lizard’s molting.
natural
Parrots can look a bit scruffy during their molting season.
natural