skeleton service
Plural
skeleton services
1
the service that is available only at certain times or under certain conditions
The idiom "skeleton service" originated in the context of emergency services and refers to a minimal level of service or support provided during an emergency situation or times of low demand. It is used to describe any situation where a minimal level of service or support is being provided, such as in the context of customer service or technical support.
- Due to staffing shortages, the DMV has been offering only a skeleton service, with long wait times and limited availability.
- During the pandemic, the library is only providing a skeleton service, with limited hours and reduced capacity.
- When the power went out, the grocery store was only able to offer a skeleton service, selling perishable items at discounted prices.