| a group of inscribed animal bones and shells discovered in China and used originally in divination by the ancient Chinese, esp. during the Shang dynasty. |
| Main Entry: | oracle bones |
| Part of Speech: | n |
| Definition: | a number of incised animal bones (usu. shoulder blades) and turtle shells discovered in China that were used for divination during the Shang dynasty period (c 1766-1122 BC) |