skeletonize

verb

skel·​e·​ton·​ize ˈske-lə-tə-ˌnīz How to pronounce skeletonize (audio)
skeletonized; skeletonizing

transitive verb

: to produce in or reduce to skeleton form
skeletonize a leaf

Examples of skeletonize 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.
Among the most harrowing was an overhead photograph of Rivas’ body pieced back together on a metal table, her face skeletonized. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 24 July 2026 Japanese beetles are persistent and cause severe cosmetic damage to zinnias’ leaves and flowers, leaving leaves skeletonized and lacy-looking. — The Spruce, 21 July 2026 Adult beetles skeletonize leaves and flowers, while their larvae, or grubs, damage grass roots in the soil. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 6 July 2026 Authorities said that partial skeletonized remains were found on June 2, 1998, in the Hogsprings area near Ticaboo within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. — David Chiu, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for skeletonize

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of skeletonize was in 1644

Rhymes for skeletonize

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Browse Nearby Words

skeletonization
skeletonize
skeletonizer
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Cite this Entry

“Skeletonize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skeletonize. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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