What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
molt
Example
The bird is molting its feathers in preparation for winter. [molt: verb]
Example
The snake's molted skin was left behind in the terrarium. [molted: past participle]
shed
Example
The dog is shedding its fur all over the couch. [shed: verb]
Example
I need to shed some old clothes from my closet. [shed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shed is more commonly used than molt in everyday language, due to its versatility and broader range of meanings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between molt and shed?
Both molt and shed are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
