Category:Skeleton

Skel"e*ton, n. Etym: [nl., fr. Gr.

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 Skel"e*ton, a.

Defn: 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 (zoöl.), a small crustacean of the genus Caprella. See illust. under læmodipoda.