Rib

rib, n. (Anat.) One of the curved bones attached to the spine and inclosing the thoracic cavity: see Thorax. That which resembles a rib in form or use, as a piece of timber which forms or strengthens the side of a ship; (Arch.) an arch-formed piece of timber for supporting the lath and plaster work of a vault; also a projecting piece on the interior of a vault, etc.; (Bot.) any marked nerve or vein of a leaf. A prominent line or rising, like a rib in cloth. — v. [ribbed (ribd), -bing.] To furnisli with ribs; to inclose with ribs, shut in. [AS. ribb, D. rib perh. rive.] — Rib'roast, v. To beat soundly.