MOLTING Meaning and
Definition
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Molting is a natural biological process observed in various species, including animals and birds, whereby they shed or discard their old feathers, skin, hair, or outer layer in order to make way for new growth. Also known as moulting, this phenomenon is typically associated with growth, development, and the renewal of physical structures.
Molting can occur in a cyclic manner, with different species undergoing this process at specific times or during particular seasons. The shedding of feathers, for instance, is a common occurrence in birds, allowing them to replace damaged or worn-out feathers. This enables them to maintain their ability to fly, thermoregulate, and exhibit mating displays more effectively.
Similarly, various mammals, reptiles, and insects engage in molting to facilitate growth and regeneration. Snakes, for example, shed their skin periodically to accommodate their increasing body size. This also helps to rejuvenate their skin, remove parasites, and maintain overall health. Insects like butterflies undergo metamorphosis, shedding their old exoskeleton or chrysalis to emerge as fully developed adults.
The molting process is often accompanied by physiological changes, such as the production of new feathers or the formation of a new layer of skin. These changes may involve the deposition of essential proteins, pigments, or other structural components to ensure the successful development of the new growth. Molting can be a vulnerable period for animals, as they may be temporarily disadvantaged due to the loss of their protective covering or reduced mobility. However, it is a crucial and necessary phase that contributes significantly to the growth, adaptation, and survival of numerous species in the animal kingdom.
Common Misspellings for MOLTING
Etymology of MOLTING
The word "molting" is derived from the Middle English term "muten" or "mouten", which originated from the Old English word "mutian" meaning "to change". This Old English word comes from the Proto-Germanic root "mut-", which is related to the concept of "shedding" or "changing". The term "molting" specifically refers to the shedding of feathers, skin, or horns by an animal in order to allow for the growth of new ones.
Similar spelling words for MOLTING
Conjugate verb Molting
CONDITIONAL
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FUTURE
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FUTURE PERFECT
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PAST
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PAST PERFECT
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PRESENT
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molt
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PRESENT PERFECT
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