ScienceAugust 17, 2026

molted

MOHL-tid

Definition

The process by which an animal, such as a crayfish, sheds its old shell or exoskeleton to allow for growth.

Etymology

The word originates from the Middle English 'molten,' derived from the Latin 'mutare,' meaning to change, referring to the shedding of skin or feathers to make way for new growth.

In the news

The article explains that the crayfish naturally molt, which causes their attached research tags to fall off, serving as an indicator that the animal survived the initial post-release period.

Scientists put tiny backpacks on crayfish

Read the full article ↗

Popular Science

Related words

biobots

Microscopic, synthetic or semi-synthetic robots that incorporate living biological…

Science

biosynthesizes

To produce a complex chemical compound within a living organism.

Science

chimeras

In this medical context, a molecule or substance that is artificially created by…

Science

chlorpyrifos

A common organophosphate pesticide known for its use in agriculture and home pest control.

Science

contrail

A visible streak of condensed water vapor or ice crystals trailing behind an aircraft at…

Science

elastomer

A flexible, rubber-like polymer material used in this context for biological tagging that…

Science

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.