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"

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"

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"

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"

Related terms: supporting_structure hoop chassis ship building aircraft
Similar spelling:   Skelton
  skillet
  skeletal
  skilled