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skeleton
(skelŽә-tәn)
the hard framework of the animal body, especially the bony framework of the body of higher vertebrate animals; the bones of the body collectively. Anatomically, it is divided into the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. The bones of the skeleton give support and shape to the body, protect delicate internal organs, and provide sites of attachment
for muscles to make movement possible. In addition, they store and help maintain the correct level of calcium, and the bone marrow manufactures blood cells. adj., skelŽetal., adj.
Skeleton, seen from the front (left) and rear (right).
appendicular skeleton
the bones of the upper and lower limbs, usually consisting of 126 bones in a human being.
axial skeleton
the bones of the head and trunk, including the skull, vertebral column, ribs, and sternum, usually consisting of 80 bones in a human being.

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