<p><strong>noun</strong></p><ul><li>the outer layer of the skin of a snake, which is cast off periodically.</li><li>a mass or layer of dead tissue separated from the surrounding or underlying tissue.</li><li>anything that is shed or cast off.</li><li>a discard (in cards).</li></ul><p><strong>verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used without object) to be or become shed or cast off, as the slough of a snake.</li><li>to cast off a slough.</li><li>(used with object) to dispose of or get rid of; cast (often followed by off): to slough off a bad habit.</li><li>to shed as or like a slough.</li><li>(cards) to discard (cards).</li></ul><p><strong>synonyms</strong></p><ul><li>molt</li></ul>