How Do You Spell EXTERNAL SKELETON?

Pronunciation: [ɛkstˈɜːnə͡l skˈɛlɪtən] (IPA)

The external skeleton, or exoskeleton, is characteristic of many arthropods, such as insects and crustaceans. The word is spelled with the prefix "exo-" meaning outside, and the stem "skeleton." The pronunciation of the word is [ɛkˈstɜː.nəl ˈskɛl.ɪ.tən], with stress on the first syllable of "external." The "t" in "skeleton" is silent, while the "c" is pronounced as a "k" sound. This protective outer covering provides support and protection for the animal's internal organs and muscles.

EXTERNAL SKELETON Meaning and Definition

1. External skeleton, also known as an exoskeleton, refers to a rigid, protective, and external structure that surrounds and supports the body of certain organisms. It is primarily composed of a tough and lightweight material called chitin, which provides structural integrity and defense against external threats.

   Found in diverse groups of animals such as insects, crustaceans, and some arachnids, the external skeleton acts as a barrier, shielding the internal organs and delicate tissues from external dangers like predators, physical impacts, and desiccation. It serves as a strong, flexible armor that protects the organism from injuries and provides a framework for muscle attachment, allowing for coordinated and efficient movement.

   The exoskeleton is a vital feature that plays a crucial role in the overall survival and evolutionary success of the organisms possessing it. It provides continuous support to the animal's body, ensuring structural stability during locomotion and preventing the loss of body shape. Additionally, the external skeleton acts as a platform for sensory structures such as hairs, bristles, and spines, enabling the organism to detect their environment more effectively.

   However, the external skeleton also poses certain limitations. It restricts growth, necessitating moulting or shedding of the old exoskeleton to accommodate an increasing body size. During molting, the organism forms a new, larger exoskeleton to replace the old one. This process is energetically demanding and leaves the organism vulnerable until the new exoskeleton hardens, risking predation or injury.

   In conclusion, an external skeleton is a protective and supportive structure found in certain organisms, composed mainly of chitin, which serves as an armor against external threats, allows for efficient movement, and houses sensory structures.

Etymology of EXTERNAL SKELETON

The word "external skeleton" is composed of two parts: "external" and "skeleton".

1. "External" comes from the Latin word "externus", which means "outer" or "on the outside". It entered the English language in the late 16th century, derived from the Latin prefix "ex-" meaning "out" or "outside".

2. "Skeleton" originates from the Greek word "skeletos", meaning "dried-up" or "dried body". The Greek word came from the verb "skellein", which means "to dry up" or "make dry". The term "skeleton" was first used in its current form in the mid-16th century in English.