Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Backbone
Back′bone′
(băk′bōnˊ)
, Noun.
[2d
back
, n. + bone
.] 1.
The column of bones in the back which sustains and gives firmness to the frame; the spine; the vertebral or spinal column.
2.
Anything like , or serving the purpose of, a backbone.
The lofty mountains on the north side compose the granitic axis, or
backbone
of the country. Darwin.
We have now come to the
backbone
of our subject. Earle.
3.
Firmness; moral principle; steadfastness.
Shelley’s thought never had any
backbone
. Shairp.
To the backbone
, through and through; thoroughly; entirely.
“Staunch to the backbone.” Lord Lytton.
Webster 1828 Edition
Backbone
BACKBO'NE
,Noun.
Definition 2024
backbone
backbone
English
Noun
backbone (plural backbones)
- The series of vertebrae, separated by disks, that encloses and protects the spinal cord, and runs down the middle of the back in vertebrate animals.
- Any fundamental support, structure, or infrastructure.
- Before automobiles, railroads were a backbone of commerce.
- Courage, fortitude, or strength.
- He would make a good manager, if he had a little more backbone.
Synonyms
- spine
- spinal column
- vertebral column
- See also Wikisaurus:backbone
Translations
series of vertebrae that encloses the spinal cord
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any fundamental support, structure, or infrastructure
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courage, fortitude, or strength
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