endoskeleton

American  

[en-doh-skel-i-tn] / ˌɛn doʊˈskɛl ɪ tn /

noun

Zoology.

1. the internal skeleton or framework of the body of an animal (opposed to exoskeleton).

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endoskeleton British  

/ ˌɛndəʊˈskɛlɪtən /

noun

1. the internal skeleton of an animal, esp the bony or cartilaginous skeleton of vertebrates Compare exoskeleton

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endoskeleton Scientific  

/ ĕn′dō-skĕl′ĭ-tn /

1. The internal supporting framework of humans and other vertebrates, usually made of bone. Certain invertebrates, such as sponges and echinoderms, also have endoskeletons.

2. Compare exoskeleton

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• endoskeletal
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of endoskeleton

First recorded in 1830–40; endo- + skeleton

Compare meaning

How does endoskeleton compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• endoskeleton vs. exoskeleton