Skeleton /(?)/

Skel·e·ton

Skeleton

n.
  1. The bony and cartilaginous framework which supports the soft parts of a vertebrate animal. (Anat.)
  2. A very thin or lean person.
    The great skeleton of the world.
  3. The heads and outline of a literary production, especially of a sermon.

Skeleton

a.
  1. Consisting of, or resembling, a skeleton; consisting merely of the framework or outlines; having only certain leading features of anything; as, a skeleton sermon; a skeleton crystal.

Phrases & Compounds
Skeleton bill
a bill or draft made out in blank as to the amount or payee, but signed by the acceptor.
Skeleton key
a key with nearly the whole substance of the web filed away, to adapt it to avoid the wards of a lock; a master key; -- used for opening locks to which it has not been especially fitted.
Skeleton leaf
a leaf from which the pulpy part has been removed by chemical means, the fibrous part alone remaining.
Skeleton proof
a proof of a print or engraving, with the inscription outlined in hair strokes only, such proofs being taken before the engraving is finished.
Skeleton regiment
a regiment which has its complement of officers, but in which there are few enlisted men.
Skeleton shrimp
a small crustacean of the genus Caprella. See Illust. under Laemodipoda.