n. [ NL., fr. Gr. &unr_;&unr_;&unr_;&unr_; (sc. &unr_;&unr_;&unr_;) a dried body, a mummy, fr. &unr_;&unr_;&unr_;&unr_; dried up, parched, &unr_;&unr_;&unr_;&unr_; to dry, dry up, parch. ]
☞ In a wider sense, the skeleton includes the whole connective-tissue framework with the integument and its appendages. See Endoskeleton, and Exoskeleton. [ 1913 Webster ]
The great skeleton of the world. Sir M. Hale. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. Consisting of, or resembling, a skeleton; consisting merely of the framework or outlines; having only certain leading features of anything;
Skeleton bill,
Skeleton key,
Skeleton leaf,
Skeleton proof,
Skeleton regiment,
Skeleton shrimp (Zool.),
v. t.
n. (Zool.) Any small moth whose larva eats the parenchyma of leaves, leaving the skeleton;