endoskeleton

noun

en·​do·​skel·​e·​ton ˌen-dō-ˈske-lə-tən How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
: an internal skeleton or supporting framework in an animal
endoskeletal
ˌen-dō-ˈske-lə-tᵊl How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
adjective

Examples of endoskeleton 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.
The inner layer, or endoskeleton, is made of heavy-duty paper folded into a series of ridges. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 9 June 2026 There is also quite a lot of diecast throughout the toy, mainly acting as an endoskeleton to help with the transformation but also in the joints. — Ollie Barder, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2021 Like all echinoderms, starfish have endoskeletons built of tiny bones, or ossicles, linked by muscles and collagen fibers that allow the animals to change posture and move. — Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 14 Sep. 2024 One possible solution involves placing (Nb3Sn) into a protective steel endoskeleton that prevents it from crushing itself. — IEEE Spectrum, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of endoskeleton was circa 1847

Rhymes for endoskeleton

See All Rhymes for endoskeleton

Browse Nearby Words

endoskeletal
endoskeleton
endosome
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Endoskeleton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/endoskeleton. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

endoskeleton

noun
en·​do·​skel·​e·​ton ˌen-dō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
: an inside skeleton or supporting framework in an animal

Medical Definition

endoskeleton

noun
en·​do·​skel·​e·​ton ˌen-dō-ˈskel-ət-ᵊn How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
: an internal skeleton or supporting framework in an animal compare exoskeleton
endoskeletal
-ət-ᵊl How to pronounce endoskeleton (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on endoskeleton

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about endoskeleton

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