Pronunciation: [ɛɡzˈaɹe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Exarate is a relatively uncommon word that refers to the transformation of an insect from a larva to a mature adult with fully developed wings. When pronounced, the word is broken down into four syllables: "egz-uh-reyt" with the "egz" sounding like "eggs" and the "uh" sounding like the "u" in "up". The pronunciation of the final syllable "reyt" is as in the word "rate", with a short "a" and a "t" sound at the end.
Exarate is an adjective that refers to a state or condition in which an insect or organism undergoes a certain type of development known as exaration. This term is specifically used in the field of entomology and is commonly employed to describe the physical appearance and structure of the wings of some insects during their pupal stage.
During exarate development, the wings of the pupa undergo a process of folding and pleating inside the insect's body, gradually attaining a fully-formed, articulated structure. This process typically occurs within a protective covering or cocoon, in which the insect undergoes further metamorphosis. Once the exarate development is complete, the adult insect emerges from its pupal stage, unfolding its wings and revealing a fully functional flight apparatus.
The term "exarate" originates from the Latin word "exarat," which loosely translates to "unfold" or "spread out." It is important to note that not all insects undergo exarate development; some species instead undergo a different process called obtected development, in which the wings remain tight and enclosed within the pupal casing.
In summary, exarate is a term used to describe the developmental state in which an insect's wings undergo folding and pleating inside the pupal stage, eventually emerging as fully formed and functioning wings when the insect reaches adulthood.
The word "exarate" is derived from the Latin word "exaratus", which is the past participle of the verb "exarare". The Latin term "exarare" is a combination of the prefix "ex-", meaning "out", and the verb "arare", which means "to plow".
In Latin, "exaratus" referred to the act of plowing or turning up the earth. Over time, the meaning of "exarate" has evolved to have a more specific usage in the field of entomology. In this context, "exarate" is used to describe an insect in its pupal stage, with developing wings and other structures exposed, rather than being enclosed within a protective cocoon or case.
