What does SCUTE mean?

Here is the requested information on "scute": 1. Parts of Speech: Noun 2. Definitions: - A bony external plate or scale, as on the shell of a turtle or the skin of a crocodile. - A small, horny or bony plate on the skin of some animals, such as pangolins, armadillos, or some lizards. 3. Pronunciations: - US: /skyoot/ - UK: /skjuːt/ 4. Origin and Usage: The word "scute" comes from the Latin word "scutum," meaning "shield." It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe the bony external plates or scales found on the skin of various animals, including turtles, crocodiles, pangolins, armadillos, and some lizards. 5. Synonyms: Scale, plate, armor, shell 6. Related Words: Scale, plate, armor, shell 7. Example Sentences: - The turtles shell was covered in scutes that protected it from predators. - The pangolins body was covered in overlapping scutes that provided it with a natural armor. - The crocodiles skin was covered in tough, bony scutes that helped it survive in its harsh environment.