strong-boned
Definition
Adjective: 1. Having strong bones: Describes a person, animal, or structure possessing bones that are physically robust, dense, and resistant to breaking or stress.
Usage
The adjective "strong-boned" is used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like "is" or "was") to describe the physical characteristic of having a sturdy skeletal structure. * It is often used in contexts discussing physical health, anatomy, livestock breeding, or descriptive characterizations.
Examples
- The veterinarian noted that the young calf was strong-boned and likely to grow into a healthy adult.
- She comes from a strong-boned family, known for their sturdy builds and good health.
- For this heavy work, we need a strong-boned horse.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically or figuratively to describe something as having a robust or solid underlying framework or structure, though this is less common.
- The novel's plot was strong-boned, providing a solid foundation for its complex characters.
Variants and Related Words
- Boned (adj.): Having bones of a specified kind (e.g., , ). "Strong-boned" is a specific compound form of this pattern.
- Strong (adj.): Possessing physical power. This is the root adjective modified in the compound.
- Sturdy (adj.): Strongly and solidly built. A close synonym in many contexts.
- Robust (adj.): Strong and healthy; vigorous.
Synonyms
- Sturdy
- Robust
- Stout
- Durable (when referring to structure)
Antonyms
- Frail
- Delicate-boned
- Weak-boned
- Fragile
Adjective
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having strong bones
