Definition of Skeleton. Meaning of Skeleton. Synonyms of Skeleton
Here you will find one or more explanations in English for the word Skeleton.
Also in the bottom left of the page several parts of wikipedia pages related to the word Skeleton and, of course, Skeleton synonyms and on the right images related to the word Skeleton.
Definition of Skeleton
Skeleton Skeleton Skel"e*ton, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ???? (sc. ???) a dried
body, a mummy, fr. ???? dried up, parched, ???? to dry, dry
up, parch.]
1. (Anat.)
(a) The bony and cartilaginous framework which supports
the soft parts of a vertebrate animal.
Note: [See Illust. of the Human Skeleton, in Appendix.]
(b) The more or less firm or hardened framework of an
invertebrate animal.
Note: In a wider sense, the skeleton includes the whole
connective-tissue framework with the integument and its
appendages. See Endoskeleton, and Exoskeleton.
2. Hence, figuratively:
(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. --Sir M. Hale.
(c) The heads and outline of a literary production,
especially of a sermon.
Skeleton Skeleton Skel"e*ton, a.
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.
Skeleton bill, a bill or draft made out in blank as to the
amount or payee, but signed by the acceptor. [Eng.]
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 (Zo["o]l.), a small crustacean of the genus
Caprella. See Illust. under L[ae]modipoda.
