endoskeleton

noun

en·​do·​skel·​e·​ton ˌen-dō-ˈske-lə-tən How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
: an internal skeleton or supporting framework in an animal
endoskeletal adjective

Examples of endoskeleton in a Sentence

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 all echinoderms, starfish have endoskeletons built of tiny bones, or ossicles, linked by muscles and collagen fibers that allow the animals to change posture and move. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 14 Sep. 2024 There is also quite a lot of diecast throughout the toy, mainly acting as an endoskeleton to help with the transformation but also in the joints. Ollie Barder, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of endoskeleton was circa 1847

Dictionary Entries Near endoskeleton

Cite this Entry

“Endoskeleton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endoskeleton. Accessed 12 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

endoskeleton

noun
en·​do·​skel·​e·​ton ˌen-dō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
: an inside skeleton or supporting framework in an animal

Medical Definition

endoskeleton

noun
en·​do·​skel·​e·​ton ˌen-dō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
: an internal skeleton or supporting framework in an animal compare exoskeleton
endoskeletal adjective

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