Meaning & Definition of word "Rib"

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    Rib

    /rɪb/

    noun:

    • 1. One of the curved bones that form the rib cage, protecting the thoracic cavity and supporting the chest.
      • Example: She felt a sharp pain in her rib after falling during the soccer match.
    • 2. A similar structure in some animals, especially those with a ribcage.
      • Example: The paleontologist discovered rib fossils from a dinosaur species.
    • 3. A cut of meat from the rib section of an animal, typically beef or pork.
      • Example: He ordered a rack of ribs smothered in barbecue sauce.

    verb:

    • 1. To tease or make fun of someone in a playful manner.
      • Example: His friends loved to rib him about his obsession with classic cars.
    • 2. To provide ribbing or support; to strengthen.
      • Example: They ribbed the structure with additional beams to ensure it could withstand the storm.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'ribbe', from Old English 'ribb'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    rib cage:

    The bony structure that encases the chest organs.

    to rib someone:

    To make fun of or tease someone.

    Related Words

    costal:

    Pertaining to the ribs.

    sternum:

    The bone to which the ribs are connected.

    Slang Meanings of rib

    Meaning: To tease or joke.

    Example Sentence: They always rib each other about their sports teams.

    Meaning: Referring to someone's ribs in a playful manner.

    Example Sentence: He poked me in the ribs while we laughed.