Definitions for the word "Rib" from multiple English dictionaries.
1. n.
One of the curved bones attached to the vertebral column and supporting the lateral walls of the thorax.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
That which resembles a rib in form or use.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
One of the timbers, or bars of iron or steel, that branch outward and upward from the keel, to support the skin or planking, and give shape and strength to the vessel.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
A ridge, fin, or wing, as on a plate, cylinder, beam, etc., to strengthen or stiffen it.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
One of the rods on which the cover of an umbrella is extended.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
A prominent line or ridge, as in cloth.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
A longitudinal strip of metal uniting the barrels of a double-barreled gun.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
The chief nerve, or one of the chief nerves, of a leaf.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. n.
Any longitudinal ridge in a plant.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
10. n.
In Gothic vaulting, one of the primary members of the vault. These are strong arches, meeting and crossing one another, dividing the whole space into triangles, which are then filled by vaulted construction of lighter material. Hence, an imitation of one of these in wood, plaster, or the like.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
11. n.
A projecting mold, or group of moldings, forming with others a pattern, as on a ceiling, ornamental door, or the like.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
12. n.
Solid coal on the side of a gallery; solid ore in a vein.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
13. n.
An elongated pillar of ore or coal left as a support.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
14. n.
A wife; -- in allusion to Eve, as made out of Adam's rib.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
15. v. t.
To furnish with ribs; to form with rising lines and channels; as, to rib cloth.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
16. v. t.
To inclose, as with ribs, and protect; to shut in.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
17. n.
1 each of the curved bones joined to the spine in pairs and protecting the chest. 2 joint of meat from this part of an animal. 3 supporting ridge, timber, rod, etc. Across a surface or through a structure. 4 knitting combination of plain and purl stitches producing a ribbed design. v.
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
18. slang
a wife. Derivation, of course, Biblical.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864
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Additional Info
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