skeleton
//ˈskɛlɪtən//
Noun
skeletonSingular
skeletonsPlural
1
The internal framework of bones that supports and protects the body of a vertebrate animal or human.
The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones.
2
A very thin or emaciated person or animal.
After months of illness, he had become a skeleton.
3
The basic structural framework or essential outline of something.
She wrote the skeleton of her essay before adding the details.
4
A secret source of shame or embarrassment, especially one kept hidden (as in 'skeleton in the closet').
Every family has a skeleton in the closet.
Adjective
skeletonCanonical form
1
Reduced to the minimum; consisting only of essential elements.
The company is operating with a skeleton staff during the holidays.