Human skeleton

Related symbols are the entire skeletal remains and any of its parts, notably the skull, the ribs and the hands. Teeth in the living face or skull are also present in symbolism.

The skeleton and the skull symbolize death of some kind. The cross-bones (two bones crossed behind a skull) are an indication of the danger of death, for example, on the 'jolly Roger' pennant of pirates, on containers for toxic substances or near high voltage electrical apparatus. Symbols of death may be metaphorical, referring only to the ideas of cessation or rupture. Teeth barred in a human grimace (or rictus) may symbolize extreme pain. The grimace may indicate enmity, especially with the lower jaw thrust forward in a biting position. The toothy smile reveals that the teeth are not set to bite and is a universal, human symbol of real or artificial friendliness and pleasure.