Skeletal: meaning, definitions and examples

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skeletal

[ ˈskɛlɪtəl ]

^{Context #1}

anatomy

Relating to or functioning as a skeleton. Of, relating to, forming, or of the nature of a skeleton.

Synonyms

bony, framework, osseous

Examples of usage

The skeletal system provides support for the body and protects internal organs.
The skeletal structure of the building was reinforced with steel beams.
Her skeletal remains were found in the forest.
The skeletal muscles are responsible for movement.
The doctor examined the patient's skeletal x-rays.

^{Context #2}

figurative

Extremely thin; emaciated.

Synonyms

gaunt, haggard, skinny

Examples of usage

She looked skeletal after weeks of starvation.
His face was skeletal from illness.
The stray dog was skeletal from lack of food.

Translations

Translations of the word "skeletal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esquelético

🇮🇳 कंकाल संबंधी

🇩🇪 skeletal

🇮🇩 skeletal

🇺🇦 скелетний

🇵🇱 szkieletowy

🇯🇵 骨格の

🇫🇷 squelettique

🇪🇸 esquelético

🇹🇷 iskeletsel

🇰🇷 뼈대의

🇸🇦 هيكلي

🇨🇿 kosterní

🇸🇰 kostrový

🇨🇳 骨骼的

🇸🇮 skeletni

🇮🇸 beinagrind

🇰🇿 қаңқалық

🇬🇪 ჩონჩხი

🇦🇿 skeletal

🇲🇽 esquelético (іспанська)

Word origin

The word 'skeletal' originated from the late 18th century, derived from the Greek word 'skeletos' meaning dried up or withered. It first appeared in English to describe something related to or resembling a skeleton, either in anatomy or figuratively to describe extreme thinness or emaciation.