skeleton
word
Definition
A skeleton is the internal structure of bones that supports the body of a person or animal. It can also mean a very basic or simplified form of something.
Usage & Nuances
Used in science and medicine for anatomy, but also metaphorically in 'skeleton crew' (minimal staff), 'skeleton in the closet' (hidden secret), and 'skeleton structure' (basic framework). Can be literal (bones) or figurative (outline, minimum).
Example Sentences
The human skeleton has 206 bones.
basic
The museum has a dinosaur skeleton on display.
basic
A fish's skeleton is different from a human's.
basic
He’s got a few skeletons in his closet he doesn’t want to talk about.
natural
Our team is working with a skeleton staff during the holidays.
natural
They just built the skeleton of the new stadium for now.
natural