endoskeleton

[ en-doh-skel-i-tn ]

noun

, Zoology.

1. the internal skeleton or framework of the body of an animal ( exoskeleton ).

endoskeleton

/ ˌɛndəʊˈskɛlɪtən /

noun

1. the internal skeleton of an animal, esp the bony or cartilaginous skeleton of vertebrates Compare exoskeleton

endoskeleton

/ ĕn′dō-skĕl′ĭ-tn /

1. The internal supporting framework of humans and other vertebrates, usually made of bone. Certain invertebrates, such as sponges and echinoderms, also have endoskeletons.
2. Compare exoskeleton

Derived Forms

• ˌendoˈskeletal, adjective

Other Words From

• endo·skele·tal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of endoskeleton¹

First recorded in 1830–40; endo- + skeleton

Example Sentences

Google famously embraced a similar idea: a modular smartphone, code-named Project Ara, that let users mix and match different components into a single frame, or “endoskeleton.”

From Washington Post

Over several months, the artist has built three black scaffold structures 60 feet high, off the walls, like an endoskeleton.

From New York Times

"I’ve got thick skin stretched over my metal endoskeleton, so I knew I could take it," he noted.

From Fox News

It’s composed of inflatable habitats, which are currently being developed by NASA, and an endoskeleton and exoskeleton created using topological optimization as the guiding principal.

From Los Angeles Times

The place was emptied of its clientele, and largely gutted of its well-appointed décor and furnishings, revealing its original gritty endoskeleton.

From New York Times