ˈskelɪtn n. 1 a a
hard internal or
external framework of bones,
cartilage,
shell,
woody fibre,
etc., supporting or containing
the body of an
animal or
plant. b the
dried bones of a
human being or
other animal fastened
together in the
same relative positions as in
life. 2 the supporting framework or
structure or
essential part of a
thing. 3 a
very thin or emaciated
person or animal. 4 the remaining part of
anything after its life or usefulness is
gone. 5 an
outline sketch, an
epitome or
abstract. 6 (attrib.) having
only the essential or
minimum number of persons, parts, etc. (skeleton
plan; skeleton staff). øskeleton at the
feast something that spoils one's
pleasure; an
intrusive worry. skeleton in the
cupboard (US closet) a
discreditable or embarrassing
fact kept secret. skeleton key a key designed to fit
many locks by having the
interior of the bit hollowed. øøskeletal adj. skeletally adv. skeletonize v.tr. (also -ise). [mod.L f. Gk, neut. of skeletos dried-up f. skello
dry up]
