Etymology
The word "moult" derives from the Old English term "mūtian," meaning "to change." This term is further derived from the Proto-Germanic root "mūtan," which also gave rise to words like "mute" and "move."
Meaning and Origin
Moult refers to the cyclical shedding and re-growth of feathers, hair, skin, or other outer coverings by animals, especially birds. It is a natural process that typically occurs in response to seasonal changes, hormone fluctuations, or other environmental cues.
The primary purpose of moulting is to replace worn-out or damaged coverings with new ones. This helps maintain thermoregulation, protection from the elements, and sensory functions. Moulting also plays a vital role in thermoregulation, camouflage, mating displays, and predator avoidance.
The process of moulting can vary significantly between species, depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the coverings, the species' life history, and environmental conditions. In birds, for example, moulting usually occurs in stages, with specific feathers being shed and replaced in a predictable sequence. In contrast, mammals typically moult continuously, with individual hairs or skin cells being shed and replaced gradually over time.
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Word Etymology Meaning Origin Table Old French table from
