Skeleton
Skeleton , noun
[New Latin, from Greek {not transcribed} (sc. {not transcribed}) a dried body, a mummy, from {not transcribed} dried up, parched, {not transcribed} to dry, dry up, parch.]
[See Illust. of the Human Skeleton, in Appendix.]
1.
(a) (Anatomy) The bony and cartilaginous framework which supports the soft parts of a vertebrate animal.
(b)
(Anatomy) The more or less firm or hardened framework of an invertebrate animal.
In a wider sense, the skeleton includes the whole connective-tissue framework with the integument and its appendages. See Endoskeleton, and Exoskeleton.
2.
(a) A very thin or lean person.
(b)
The framework of anything; the principal parts that support the rest, but without the appendages.
The great skeleton of the world.
(c)
The heads and outline of a literary production, especially of a sermon.
Skeleton , adjective
Consisting of, or resembling, a skeleton; consisting merely of the framework or outlines; having only certain leading features of anything; as, a skeleton sermon; a skeleton crystal.
Collocations (6)
Skeleton bill , a bill or draft made out in blank as to the amount or payee, but signed by the acceptor. [English]
Skeleton key , a key with nearly the whole substance of the web filed away, to adapt it to avoid the wards of a lock; a master key; -- used for opening locks to which it has not been especially fitted.
Skeleton leaf , a leaf from which the pulpy part has been removed by chemical means, the fibrous part alone remaining.
Skeleton proof , a proof of a print or engraving, with the inscription outlined in hair strokes only, such proofs being taken before the engraving is finished.
Skeleton regiment , a regiment which has its complement of officers, but in which there are few enlisted men.
Skeleton shrimp (Zoology) , a small crustacean of the genus Caprella. See Illust. under Laemodipoda.