[f. prec.: see -ATION.] The action or process of exuviating; shedding (of antlers, skin, etc.).
1839. Todd, Cycl. Anat., II. 882/2. The exuviation of the skeleton of Crustacea … is similar to that of insects.
a. 1852. Macgillivray, Nat. Hist. Dee Side (1855), 463. The exuviation … of the antlers … seems to connect these organs with those parts of the skin … which are subject to this process.
1852. Dana, Crust., I. 3. Numerous exuviæ of Cirripeds were collected, proving that these animals undergo exuviation.
fig. 1864. H. Spencer, Illustr. Univ. Progr., 114. Society, in all its developements, undergoes the process of exuviation.
1874. Draper, Relig. & Sc. (ed. 3), 328. The most serious trial through which society can pass, is encountered in the exuviation of its religious restraints.
