Skeleton \Skel"e*ton\, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ???? (sc. ???) a dried body, a mummy, fr. ???? dried up, parched, ???? to dry, dry up, parch.]

1. (Anat.)
   (a) The bony and cartilaginous framework which supports the soft parts of a vertebrate animal.

Note: [See Illust. of the Human Skeleton, in Appendix.]


   (b) The more or less firm or hardened framework of an invertebrate animal.

Note: In a wider sense, the skeleton includes the whole connective-tissue framework with the integument and its appendages. See Endoskeleton, and Exoskeleton.

2. Hence, figuratively:
   (a) A very thin or lean person.
   (b) The framework of anything; the principal parts that support the rest, but without the appendages.

The great skeleton of the world. --Sir M. Hale.
   (c) The heads and outline of a literary production, especially of a sermon.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Skeleton \Skel"e*ton\, a. 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.

Skeleton bill, a bill or draft made out in blank as to the amount or payee, but signed by the acceptor. [Eng.]

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 (Zo["o]l.), a small crustacean of the genus Caprella. See Illust. under L[ae]modipoda.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)