n.
- each of a series of slender curved bones articulated in pairs to the spine, protecting the thoracic cavity and its organs.
▸an animal rib with meat adhering to it used as food.
- Architecture a curved member supporting a vault or defining its form.
- a curved transverse strut in a ship, forming part of the framework of the hull.
- each of the curved pieces of wood forming the body of a lute or violin.
- each of the hinged rods supporting the fabric of an umbrella.
- Aeronautics a structural member in an aerofoil.
- a vein of a leaf or an insect's wing.
- Knitting alternate plain and purl stitches producing a ridged, slightly elastic fabric.
v.
(ribs, ribbing, ribbed)
- mark with or form into ridges.
▸provide with ribs.
- informal tease good-naturedly.
Derivative
Etymology
OE rib, ribb, of Gmc origin.