exoskeleton

noun

exo·​skel·​e·​ton ˌek-sō-ˈske-lə-tən How to pronounce exoskeleton (audio)
1
: an external supportive covering of an animal (such as an arthropod)
2
: bony or horny parts of a vertebrate produced from epidermal tissues
3
: an artificial external supporting structure
exoskeletal adjective

Examples of exoskeleton in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to Eason, rubbing alcohol dissolves the bug's exoskeleton, dehydrating it from the inside, killing it within about 30 seconds. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 27 Oct. 2025 That’s why engineers at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) have developed a soft robotic exoskeleton that doesn’t just assist motion, but lightens the load, literally. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025 Its intelligent exoskeletons adapt in real time to terrain, activity, and intention, making movement lighter and more natural. Bryan Rogala, Outside, 13 Oct. 2025 Chitin, also found in the exoskeletons of insects and arthropods, lends structure to the wings that's necessary to help butterflies fly. Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exoskeleton

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exoskeleton was in 1847

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Cite this Entry

“Exoskeleton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exoskeleton. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

exoskeleton

noun
exo·​skel·​e·​ton ˌek-sō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn How to pronounce exoskeleton (audio)
: a hard supporting or protective structure (as of an insect, spider, or crustacean) on the outside of the body

Medical Definition

exoskeleton

noun
exo·​skel·​e·​ton ˌek-sō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn How to pronounce exoskeleton (audio)
1
: an external supportive covering of an animal (as the system of sclerites covering the body of an insect) compare endoskeleton
2
: bony or horny parts (as nails, hooves, or scales) of a vertebrate produced from epidermal tissues
exoskeletal adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on exoskeleton

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