Have you noticed someone so thin that it seems like their clothes are hanging on a skeleton? That’s the picture “bag of bones” instantly creates. In this post, we’ll dive into its meaning, uncover its origin, and show you how to use it in sentences that feel both natural and expressive.
Meaning of "Bag of Bones"
The idiom “bag of bones” describes a person, animal, or even an object that is extremely thin or emaciated.
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Primary meaning: Extremely skinny, often appearing frail or unhealthy.
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Secondary meaning: Sometimes used humorously to describe someone who seems weak or fragile.
Short definition: A person or animal that is extremely thin or frail.
Origin of "Bag of Bones"
The phrase “bag of bones” comes from the vivid image of a simple sack filled only with bones. It has been used in English literature since at least the 16th century to describe famine victims, the sick, or those facing extreme hardship.
Some historians suggest the term was also popular among sailors, who often described malnourished shipmates as resembling a “bag of bones.” While the exact origin is uncertain, its effectiveness lies in creating an instantly recognizable mental image.
Examples in Sentences
Here’s how “bag of bones” can appear in different contexts:
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The stray cat in the alley looked like a bag of bones, barely moving in the cold.
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After weeks of dieting without proper nutrition, he resembled a bag of bones.
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The novel described the old man as a bag of bones, highlighting his frailty.
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Despite looking like a bag of bones, she ran marathons with incredible energy.
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Parents worried she might turn into a bag of bones if she didn’t eat properly.
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The survivors of the shipwreck were thin and worn, true bags of bones.
Similar Idioms or Phrases
Here are a few idioms that share the same idea as “bag of bones”:
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Skin and bones – Directly emphasizes extreme thinness.
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All bones and no meat – A humorous take on being very skinny.
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Like a skeleton – Highlights frailty and thinness.
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Scrawny – Casual term for thin or weak-looking individuals.
I find “bag of bones” perfect for storytelling. It’s more colorful than simply saying “very thin” and immediately paints a mental image that readers can see and feel. Using it casually can even add humor to everyday conversations.
The idiom “bag of bones” vividly describes someone or something extremely thin or frail. With roots in historical imagery, it continues to be a powerful and expressive phrase in English. Try adding it to your writing or daily chats for a splash of humor or clarity!