Definition

Having a lot of bones visible or prominent, often making someone or something look thin or scrawny.

Example

After the long illness, he looked bony and weak.

Conversation

I noticed that your cat is really bony lately, is she okay?

Yeah, she’s just getting old and losing some weight.

I hope she’s eating enough, I’ve heard that can happen with bony pets.

She eats a little less, but the vet said she’s still healthy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bony → It is formed from "bone" (from Old English "ban", meaning the hard structure that makes up the skeleton) and the suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by or resembling). The word "bony" describes something that is characterized by or resembles bones, often implying a thin or gaunt appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'characterized by bones' — that's why 'bony' describes a thin or skeletal appearance.

Visually Confused Words