Skeleton, n.
Etymology: [NL., fr. Gr.
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.
1 more senses
(c) The heads and outline of a literary production, especially of a sermon.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Skeleton, 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 (Zoöl.), a small crustacean of the genus Caprella. See Illust. under Læmodipoda.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for skeleton; he lists it under sketch.
Where he writes about it:
In written composition an outline gives simply the main divisions, and in the case of a sermon is often called a skeleton; a somewhat fuller suggestion of illustration, treatment, and style is given in a sketch. — from sketch