exoskeleton
|ex-o-skel-e-ton|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌɛksoʊˈskɛlɪtən/
🇬🇧
/ˌɛksəʊˈskɛlɪtən/
outer protective structure
Etymology
Etymology Information
'exoskeleton' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'exo' meaning 'outside' and 'skeleton' meaning 'dried body'.
Historical Evolution
'exoskeleton' was directly adopted into English from the Greek word 'exoskeleton'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'outer skeleton', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a rigid external covering for the body in some invertebrate animals, especially arthropods, providing both support and protection.
The crab's exoskeleton provides it with protection from predators.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39