Barebones

/ˈbɛərboʊnz/ adjective

Definition

Reduced to the absolute minimum; containing only the most essential elements without any extras.

Etymology

From 'bare' + 'bones' (plural), representing the complete skeleton. This compound intensifies the idea of stripping down, often used as a single modifier meaning 'bare-essential.'

Kelly Says

'Barebones' is fascinating because it's become a specific tech industry term—a 'barebones PC' is actually a defined category of product, showing how jargon creates precise meaning from simple words.

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