skeleton · noun C /ˈskel.ət.ən/
skeleton
B2 the structure made of all the bones in the body of a person or animal
Dictionary examples:
We found an old sheep skeleton up on the cliffs.
Her long illness reduced her to a skeleton.
Learner example:
In the USA, they enjoy dressing up in costumes, most of the time as skeletons, wi[t]ches or ghosts. (First Certificate in English; B2; Catalan)
a skeleton crew/staff/service
C1 the smallest number of people that you need to keep an organization working
Dictionary example:
The Red Cross has withdrawn all but a skeleton staff from the country.
Learner example:
The life-rescuing services are on call and a skeleton staff remains in all hospitals. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Polish)
