Molt

/moʊlt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the process of shedding an outer covering.

The bird's molt left a mess of feathers around the nest.

the period during which an animal sheds its old covering.

During the molt, the turtle's shell will become visibly dull.

verb

to shed an outer covering, such as feathers, skin, or hair, to make way for new growth.

The snake will molt its skin every few weeks as it grows.

to undergo a process of shedding old feathers, skin, or hair.

Birds typically molt in the late summer to prepare for the winter season.

to lose or shed fur, feathers, or skin.

Cats often molt during the spring as they prepare for warmer weather.

Middle English, from Old English 'moltan'.

molt away:

to gradually lose or shed something

to be in molt:

to be undergoing the process of shedding old skin or feathers

To drop an old habit or way of doing things.

He decided to molt his old lifestyle for a healthier one.

To change one's appearance significantly.

After the makeover, she looked like she had completely molted.