skeletal

adjective

skel·​e·​tal ˈske-lə-tᵊl How to pronounce skeletal (audio)
Synonyms of skeletalnext
: of, relating to, forming, attached to, or resembling a skeleton
skeletally
ˈske-lə-tᵊl-ē How to pronounce skeletal (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of skeletal

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Examples of skeletal in a Sentence

The archaeologist found skeletal remains. She was skeletal after her illness.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like trees that produce annual growth rings, corals add skeletal layers of calcium carbonate year after year. — Julia Cole, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 Who’s flaunting their skeletal frame and who hides a bit behind a couture wall of feathers? — Marti Noxon, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026 Once inside the second floor bedroom, state police found a set of skeletal remains in a sleeping bag, the search warrant said. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 25 Aug. 2026 Investigators returned Friday after learning the woman's husband had not been seen in years and found skeletal remains in the basement. — Elaine Rojas-Castillo, CBS News, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for skeletal

Word History

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of skeletal was in 1854

Phrases Containing skeletal

Rhymes for skeletal

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Browse Nearby Words

skelet-
skeletal
skeletal muscle
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Skeletal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skeletal. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

skeletal

adjective
skel·​e·​tal ˈskel-ət-ᵊl How to pronounce skeletal (audio)
: of, relating or attached to, forming, or resembling a skeleton
skeletal muscles
the skeletal system

Medical Definition

skeletal

adjective
skel·​e·​tal
ˈskel-ət-ᵊl, British sometimes ske-ˈlēt-ᵊl
: of, relating to, forming, attached to, or resembling a skeleton
skeletal structures
the skeletal system
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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