bony

word

Definition

Very thin, so that the bones can be easily seen or felt under the skin; also describes something that contains a lot of bones.

Usage & Nuances

Most often describes people or animals that are very thin. Can also describe foods (like fish or meat) that have many bones. Sometimes has a negative or unkind tone when talking about someone's appearance.

Example Sentences

His hands are cold and bony.

basic

This fish is too bony to eat easily.

basic

He always looked a little bony, even as a child.

natural

Be careful—this chicken is really bony.

natural

She hugged her bony grandfather gently.

natural

The bony dog searched for food in the street.

basic