Common Meanings
1
gǔ骨
Bone; the hard tissue that supports the body and protects organs in humans and vertebrates. Also used metaphorically for the backbone or core member of a group, or to refer to close blood relatives.
他是公司的业务骨干，对产品非常了解。
He is the backbone of the company's business and knows the products very well.
The framework or supporting structure of an object, similar to a bone, such as the ribs of an umbrella or a fan.
我的伞骨断了，没法用了
The ribs of my umbrella are broken, so it's unusable.
Refers to the vigor, strength, or distinctive artistic style and character in literary or artistic works, such as powerful writing ("骨力") or artistic integrity ("风骨").
他的文章笔力雄健，颇具风骨
His writing is powerful and possesses considerable artistic integrity and style.
Referring to a person's quality, spirit, or integrity, such as moral courage or character.
他很有骨气，面对困难从不低头。
He has great integrity and never bows down in the face of difficulties.
2
gū骨
Refers to an unopened flower bud, often used in the term 'gǔduǒr' (骨朵儿).
这朵花还是个小骨朵儿，没有完全开放。
This flower is still a small bud, not fully open yet.
When pronounced as gū, usually in the compound '骨碌' (gūlu), it means to roll or tumble.
他的眼睛骨碌碌地转了一下。
His eyes rolled around.