en·do·skel·e·ton ( n d -skl  -tn)n. An internal supporting skeleton, derived from the mesoderm, that is characteristic of vertebrates and certain invertebrates. en do·skele·tal (--tl) adj. |
endoskeleton [ˌɛndəʊˈskɛlɪtən]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Zoology) the internal skeleton of an animal, esp the bony or cartilaginous skeleton of vertebrates Compare exoskeleton
endoskeletal adj
| endoskeleton (nd-skl-tn) The internal supporting framework of humans and other vertebrates, usually made of bone. Certain invertebrates, such as sponges and echinoderms, also have endoskeletons. Compare exoskeleton. |
endoskeleton - Contained entirely within the body of an animal, like that of mammals.
See also related terms for mammal.
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  endoskeleton - the internal skeleton; bony and cartilaginous structure (especially of vertebrates)craniate, vertebrate - animals having a bony or cartilaginous skeleton with a segmented spinal column and a large brain enclosed in a skull or cranium clavicle, collarbone - bone linking the scapula and sternum scapula, shoulder blade, shoulder bone - either of two flat triangular bones one on each side of the shoulder in human beings skeletal system, systema skeletale, skeleton, frame - the hard structure (bones and cartilages) that provides a frame for the body of an animal appendicular skeleton - the part of the skeleton that includes the pectoral girdle and the pelvic girdle and the upper and lower limbs axial skeleton - the part of the skeleton that includes the skull and spinal column and sternum and ribs arm bone - a bone in the arm leg bone - a bone of the leg articulatio, joint, articulation - (anatomy) the point of connection between two bones or elements of a skeleton (especially if it allows motion) |
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