n. & v.
n. 1 each of the curved bones articulated in pairs to the spine and protecting the thoracic cavity and its organs. 2 a joint of meat from this part of an animal. 3 a ridge or long raised piece often of stronger or thicker material across a surface or through a structure serving to support or strengthen it. 4 any of a ship's transverse curved timbers forming the framework of the hull. 5 Knitting a combination of plain and purl stitches producing a ribbed somewhat elastic fabric. 6 each of the hinged rods supporting the fabric of an umbrella. 7 a vein of a leaf or an insect's wing. 8 Aeron. a structural member in an aerofoil.
v.tr. (ribbed, ribbing) 1 provide with ribs; act as the ribs of. 2 colloq. make fun of; tease. 3 mark with ridges. 4 plough with spaces between the furrows. ribless adj.
[ OE rib, ribb f. Gmc ]