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noun

exoskeleton

Exoskeleton (noun) means a hard external shell that supports and protects an animal's body, as seen in insects and crustaceans. Example: “A crab sheds its exoskeleton as it grows.”

noun
1
A hard external shell that supports and protects an animal's body, as seen in insects and crustaceans.
"A crab sheds its exoskeleton as it grows."
2
A wearable mechanical frame that helps a person move, lift, or walk.
"The paralysed veteran took his first steps in years using a robotic exoskeleton."

How to use exoskeleton

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA hard shell or frame on the outside of a body, whether natural (like a beetle's shell) or mechanical (a wearable robot suit).

Easily confused with
Common pairings
insect exoskeleton robotic exoskeleton

Word forms

exoskeletons plural, exoskeleta plural

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A crab sheds its _____ as it grows.

Etymology

From "exo-" ("outside") plus "skeleton."

Antonyms

Related words

Rhymes for exoskeleton

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Frequently asked questions

What does “exoskeleton” mean?

The word “exoskeleton” means a hard external shell that supports and protects an animal's body, as seen in insects and crustaceans. In plain terms, a hard shell or frame on the outside of a body, whether natural (like a beetle's shell) or mechanical (a wearable robot suit).

How do you use “exoskeleton” in a sentence?

Here is “exoskeleton” used in a sentence: “A crab sheds its exoskeleton as it grows.”

What is the opposite of “exoskeleton”?

The opposite of “exoskeleton” — its antonyms — is endoskeleton.

What part of speech is “exoskeleton”?

“Exoskeleton” is a noun.

How many meanings does “exoskeleton” have?

“Exoskeleton” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a hard external shell that supports and protects an animal's body, as seen in insects and crustaceans.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial