Skeleton (noun)

1. The internal framework of a human or animal body.
2. A basic or simple structure that underlies a larger or more complex system or organization.
3. A set of bones forming the internal structure of the body of a vertebrate.
4. A framework used as a support in constructing a building.

Origin:

Late middle english: via old french from latin skeletum, from greek skelēton "dried-up body, bony frame", from skellein "dry up".

Examples:

1. The skeleton provides support for the body.
2. The skeleton of the new building is now in place.
3. The skeleton of the plan was in place, but the details had yet to be worked out.
4. The museum has a large collection of dinosaur skeletons.
5. The artist created a skeleton of the statue out of wire before adding the clay.