■ noun
1》 an internal or external framework of bone, cartilage, or other rigid material supporting or containing the body of an animal or plant.
↘a very thin or emaciated person or animal.
2》 a supporting framework, basic structure, or essential participle
↘[as modifier ] denoting an essential or minimum number of people or things: a ~ staff.
Phrases
~ in the cupboard ( N. Amer. ~ in the closet ) a discreditable or embarrassing fact that someone wishes to keep secret.
Derivatives
~ize or ~ise verb
Origin
C16: mod. L., from Gk, neut. of skeletos 'dried up'.