Bony-cheeked

Bony-cheeked describes a person, or occasionally an animal, whose cheekbones are prominently visible due to a lack of subcutaneous fat. This physical characteristic often results from thinness, aging, illness, or a naturally slender facial structure. The term evokes an image of angularity and definition in the face, where the underlying skeletal structure is clearly apparent. The adjective 'bony-cheeked' can subtly imply a certain frailty, austerity, or even a hint of vulnerability, depending on the context. It's a descriptive term that primarily focuses on the physical appearance and the prominence of the cheekbones rather than broader personality traits or health status. The extent of bone prominence and the surrounding features such as sunken eyes or wrinkles can all add layers of meaning. Therefore, its impact is largely visual and the imagery it generates plays a crucial role in its usage.

Bony-cheeked meaning with examples

• The old prospector, weathered by years under the desert sun, had a bony-cheeked visage that spoke of hardship and resilience. His gaunt face, marked with deep lines, was framed by a scraggly, white beard, highlighting the stark prominence of his cheekbones. His eyes, though sunken, burned with a spirit that defied his frail appearance, his bony-cheeked appearance told a silent story.
• The emaciated refugee, suffering from malnutrition, presented a heartbreaking image with his sunken eyes and bony-cheeked features. The lack of proper nutrition had taken its toll. He was a shadow of his former self, a chilling reminder of suffering, highlighting the fragility of human life. His bony-cheeked face was a clear sign of his suffering and illness.
• The portrait of the famous author depicted a youthful version of him, with a lean face and bony-cheeked definition that emphasized his intellectual sharpness. His sharp jawline and cheekbones were pronounced, creating a sharp and distinct character. The artist, captured something, that the author had; strength and intellectual strength.
• The skeletal horse, a rescue animal, stood in the field, its ribs showing beneath its thin coat, and bony-cheeked features. It was a testament to the animal's lack of care. The vet said he would recover soon. This shows a display of lack of care. Its bones were almost visible, due to severe malnutrition, showing severe signs of lack of proper care.
• In the fading light, the ghost's spectral form appeared, its face pale and drawn, with noticeably bony-cheeked features. A haunting visage, it evoked a sense of ethereal beauty, reflecting a life lived between worlds. The translucent quality of the figure, the stark prominence of the bone structure, made it a ghostly figure.