Skeletal: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'skeletal' comes from the Greek word 'skeletos,' meaning 'dried up' or 'withered.'
• It entered the English language in the mid-17th century and initially referred to things related to a skeleton.

Biology

• The skeletal system is made up of 206 bones in adults, each serving crucial roles in supporting the body, facilitating movement, and protecting vital organs.
• Bone is a living tissue that constantly remodels itself through a process involving cells called osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

Art

• In art, skeletal figures often symbolize fragility or the passage of time, frequently seen in memento mori compositions.
• Famous paintings like Edvard Munch’s 'The Scream' portray figures that can convey a sense of skeletal distress or existential dread.

Health and Nutrition

• Skeletal health is significantly influenced by nutrition; calcium and vitamin D are vital for maintaining strong bones.
• Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone density, highlights the importance of a healthy diet and exercise for skeletal integrity.

Pop Culture

• In popular horror themes, skeletal figures are often used to evoke fear, representing death or the unknown.
• Characters in movies like 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' feature skeletal features as a way to blend the cute with the creepy.

Position #8,746 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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