rib Definition

rib¹
noun

1. In vertebrates: any one of the slightly flexible bones which curve round and forward from the spine, forming the chest wall and protecting the heart and lungs.
2. A cut of meat containing one or more ribs.
3. Any part or section of an object or structure that resembles a rib in form or fuction, eg part of a framework.
4. One of the pieces of wood which curve round and upward from a ship's keel to form the framework of the hull.
5. archit.
A curved raised band-like section or moulding of a structure that supports or defines a vault, dome or ceiling.
6. One of the parallel beams or girders that support a bridge.
7. mining.
A section of coal left in place to support the roof of the mine.
8. A rod-like bar which supports and strengthens a layer of fabric, membrane, etc, eg in an umbrella or in the wing of an insect or aircraft.
9. One of the larger veins in a leaf.
10. The shaft of a feather.
11. A vein of ore in rock.
12. A projecting ridge or strip of land.
13a. A raised ridge in knitted or woven material;
13b. knitting.
The series of such ridges, produced by alternating plain and purl stiches, eg around the waistband, wristbands, etc of a garment to provide elasticity.
14. bookbinding.
Each of the raised lines on the spine of a book where the stitching runs across.

verb ribbed, ribbing

1. To provide, support or enclose (an object, structure, etc) with ribs.
2. knitting.
To knit ribs on a garment.

Derivative: ribbed
adj

With ribs or ridges, or riblike markings.

Derivative: ribbing
noun

An arrangement of ribs or a rib-like structure.

Derivative: ribless
adj

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon ribb.

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rib²
verb

ribbed, ribbing
1. colloq
To tease; to mock gently.

Derivative: ribbing
noun

Etymology: 1930s: perhaps from the verb rib tickle to make someone laugh.