Skeleton Meaning and Definition
Skeleton
Pronunciation
/ˈsɛkənəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A skeleton is the internal framework or bony structure of an animal’s body, supporting its muscles and organs, comprising bones, cartilage, and joints.
Examples
1. “The skeleton of the new apartment building was visible through the open windows.”
2. “The museum’s exhibit featured a life-sized skeleton of a dinosaur.”
Synonyms
1. Framework
2. Structure
Antonyms
1. Flesh
2. Muscles
Additional Information
Skeletons are composed of bones, cartilage, and joints, which work together to provide support, protection, and movement for the body. In humans, the skeleton is made up of 206 bones, while in other animals, the number of bones can vary greatly. Skeletons can be found in various contexts, such as in medical imaging, forensic analysis, and museum displays. They can also be used as a framework for building and design. In addition, skeletons have been the subject of artistic expression, appearing in literature, music, and visual art.
Skeletons have been an integral part of human culture and history, with many ancient civilizations using them in rituals and ceremonies. In modern times, skeletons are used in a variety of fields, including medicine, engineering, and computer science. They continue to fascinate people with their unique combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
The study of skeletons is an interdisciplinary field that draws from biology, physics, and engineering to understand their structure, function, and behavior. Researchers use advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans and 3D printing, to analyze and visualize skeletons in detail.
Etymology
The word “skeleton” comes from the Greek word “σκήλη” (skele), meaning “dry, withered branch,” which was later adapted into Latin as “skeleton.” The term initially referred to the bare, bony structure of a dead animal, but eventually became a general term for any internal framework or supporting structure.
Usage Notes
1. When referring to an animal’s skeleton, use the singular form, as in “The dog’s skeleton is made up of 320 bones.”
2. When speaking of a structure or framework in general, use the singular form, as in “The building’s skeleton will be visible from the outside.”
Cultural References
1. In film, the movie “The Skeleton Key” (2005) features a plot centered around a voodoo sorcerer who uses a skeleton to cast spells.
2. In literature, Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven” (1845) features a mysterious raven who speaks to the narrator with a skeleton-like voice.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Bare bones” refers to the minimum essential elements or resources, as in “The company is operating on bare bones, with minimal staff and resources.”
2. “Skeleton crew” refers to a small group of people, often in a temporary or emergency situation, as in “The skeleton crew kept the factory running during the strike.”
Collocations
1. “Bony structure”
2. “Internal framework”
Frequency of Use
The word “skeleton” is commonly used in various contexts, including medicine, engineering, and everyday language. It is estimated that the word appears in over 10% of all written and spoken language.
Common Misspellings
1. “Skeleten”
2. “Skeletin”