Dictionary

ribby en · ADJ

Pronunciation

• /ˈɹɪbi/ (UK)

Etymology

From rib + -y.

Meanings

1. Pertaining to or having ribs; ribbed.
   • In bony, ribby regions of the earth, where at the base of high broken cliffs masses of rock lie strewn in fantastic groupings upon the plain, you will often discover images as of the petrified forms of the Leviathan partly merged in grass, which of a windy day breaks against them in a surf of green surges. 1851, Herman Melville, Moby Dick:
   • Fendi's smasheroo short, short fur belted over shorts, worn with ribby stockings, ribbier over-the-knee socks, Oxford ties. 1971, Vogue - Volume 158:
2. Specifically, so thin as to have prominent ribs; emaciated.
   • He grew thin and ribby, with narrow shoulders and a breast like a plucked chicken. 1982, TC Boyle, Water Music, Penguin, published 2006, page 215:
3. (UK) Shabby, in poor condition.
   • Darbishire glanced at the first manuscript. "This one’s pretty ribby for a kick-off. It’s Binns’ famous effort.” 1952, Anthony Buckeridge, Jennings and Darbishire:

Forms