skeleton | ||
1. | [ noun ] (zoology) the internal supporting structure that gives an artifact its shape | |
Synonyms: | skeletal_system systema_skeletale frame | |
Examples: | "the building has a steel skeleton" |
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Related terms: | system structure supporting_structure hoop exoskeleton endoskeleton chassis ship building aircraft musculoskeletal_system skeletal_structure | |
2. | [ noun ] (zoology) the hard structure (bones and cartilages) that provides a frame for the body of an animal | |
Synonyms: | skeletal_system systema_skeletale frame | |
Related terms: | system exoskeleton endoskeleton musculoskeletal_system skeletal_structure | |
3. | [ noun ] a scandal that is kept secret | |
Synonyms: | skeleton_in_the_cupboard skeleton_in_the_closet | |
Examples: | "there must be a skeleton somewhere in that family's closet" |
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Related terms: | scandal | |
4. | [ noun ] something reduced to its minimal form | |
Examples: | "the battalion was a mere skeleton of its former self" "the bare skeleton of a novel" |
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Related terms: | minimum | |
5. | [ noun ] the internal structure that gives an artifact its shape | |
Synonyms: | underframe skeletal_frame frame | |
Examples: | "the building has a steel skeleton" |
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Related terms: | supporting_structure hoop chassis ship building aircraft | |
Similar spelling: |
Skelton skillet skeletal skilled |