- rib
- noun1》 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.2》 Architecture a curved member supporting a vault or defining its form.3》 a curved transverse strut in a ship, forming part of the framework of the hull.4》 each of the curved pieces of wood forming the body of a lute or violin.5》 each of the hinged rods supporting the fabric of an umbrella.6》 Aeronautics a structural member in an aerofoil.7》 a vein of a leaf or an insect's wing.8》 Knitting alternate plain and purl stitches producing a ridged, slightly elastic fabric.verb (ribs, ribbing, ribbed)1》 mark with or form into ridges.↘provide with ribs.2》 informal tease good-naturedly.Derivativesribber nounribless adjectiveOriginOE rib, ribb, of Gmc origin.
English new terms dictionary. 2014.