rib

Definition

A rib is one of the curved bones in the chest that protect the heart and lungs. It can also mean a cut of meat from this part of an animal, especially pork or beef.

Usage & Nuances

Most often, 'rib' means the bone; in food contexts, it often means the meat cut. Common combinations are 'broken rib', 'rib cage', 'spare ribs', and 'short ribs'. Don't confuse it with 'ribs' in jokes like 'to rib someone', which is a different verb.

Example Sentences