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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- exoskeletons, exoskeleta
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A crab sheds its _____ as it grows.
Etymology
From "exo-" ("outside") plus "skeleton."
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for exoskeleton
Breton
skeleton
Carleton
Appleton
Eagleton
simpleton
singleton
Middleton
Pendleton
Stapleton
Littleton
Pembleton
See all rhymes for exoskeleton →
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.
