backbone

(Anglais)

  1. (countable) 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.
  2. (countable, figuratively) Any fundamental support, structure, or infrastructure.
  3. (figuratively, uncountable) Courage, fortitude, or strength.

Fréquence

C2
Prononcé comme (IPA)
/ˈbækˌbəʊn/
Étymologie (Anglais)

In summary

From Middle English bakbon, bakebon, bac-bon; equivalent to back + bone. Compare the semantically analogous English ridgebone.

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