skeletal

[ skel-i-tl ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or like a skeleton.

Other Words From

• skele·tal·ly adverb
• non·skele·tal adjective
• non·skele·tal·ly adverb
• pseudo·skele·tal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of skeletal¹

First recorded in 1850–55; skelet(on) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Achondroplasia is the most common form of skeletal dysplasia or dwarfism, affecting around one in 20,000 babies in Australia.

From Science Daily

Months of searching and waiting culminated in a grim discovery in August 2010 when her skeletal remains were discovered in Malibu Canyon.

From Los Angeles Times

They were looking for the source of a leak in the roof, but tucked inside a cubbyhole were the "skeletal remains", Mr Glady said.

From BBC

The experience taught Wainwright that many of his songs, which are often elaborately orchestrated, held up well in their most skeletal form.

From Los Angeles Times

The skeletal remains were found on 1 May, 195 days after he was reported missing by his wife.

From BBC

Related Words

• bony
• emaciated