exoskeleton etymology

Etymology:

"Exoskeleton" is derived from two Greek words:

  • exo- meaning "outside"
  • skeletos meaning "dried up"

Meaning and Origin:

An exoskeleton is a hard, outer covering that provides support and protection to the body of an animal. Examples of animals with exoskeletons include insects, crustaceans, and some arachnids.

The term "exoskeleton" was first coined by the French zoologist Jules Henri Poincaré in 1860. It was originally used to describe the hard outer shell of insects, which is composed of a material called chitin.

Exoskeletons are typically made of a tough, lightweight material that is strong enough to protect the animal from predators and the elements. They also provide support for the animal's muscles and help it to move.

Exoskeletons are shed periodically as the animal grows. The shedding process, known as molting, allows the animal to increase in size and to repair any damage to its exoskeleton.

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