Definition

Adjective: 1. Given substance or detail; made more complete or substantial: Describes something (like an idea, plan, or character) that has been developed from a basic form by adding necessary details, depth, or content. 2. Completed in its essential parts: Indicates that the core structure has been filled in and elaborated upon.

Usage and Examples

The adjective "fleshed out" is typically used after a linking verb (like is, was, seems) or before a noun to describe the state of an abstract concept.

• After a linking verb:
  • The initial proposal was just an outline, but the final report is fully fleshed out.
  • Her character in the first draft was flat, but in the final novel, she is wonderfully fleshed out.
• Before a noun:
  • The committee reviewed a fleshed-out version of the strategy.
  • He presented a fleshed-out plan with budgets and timelines.

Advanced Usage

• "to flesh something out" (Phrasal Verb): This is the verbal action from which the adjective is derived. It means to add details, substance, or information to make something more complete.
  • We have the basic plot; now we need to flesh out the characters.
  • Can you flesh out your argument with some specific examples?

Variants and Related Words

• Flesh out (phrasal verb): To add substance or detail. (See "Advanced Usage" above).
• Elaborated (adj): Developed or presented in great detail.
• Detailed (adj): Characterized by abundant use of detail or thoroughness of treatment.
• Substantiated (adj): Supported with evidence or authority; verified.

Synonyms

• Developed
• Elaborated
• Expanded
• Detailed
• Filled in
• Amplified

Antonyms

• Skeletal
• Outline
• Sketchy
• Undeveloped
• Vague

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To put meat on the bones of something: An idiom with a very similar meaning to "flesh out," implying adding substance to a basic framework.
  • The concept is good, but we need to put some meat on the bones.

Adjective

1. given substance or detail; completed
   • did not spring full-clad from his imagination
   • a plan fleshed out with statistics and details