backbone
Meaning
- (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.
- (countable, figuratively) Any fundamental support, structure, or infrastructure.
- (figuratively, uncountable) Courage, fortitude, or strength.
Synonyms
rachis
main chain
strength of character
centre field
centre fielder
central figure
one’s innate character
spirit of defiance
basic shaft
main arbor
vertebral columm
main nerve
principal crest
columna vertebralis
backbone network
cardinal virtues
key man
moral strength
Translations
colonne vertébrale
Rückgrat
columna vertebral
ruggengraatFrequency
Pronounced as (IPA)
/ˈbækˌbəʊn/
Etymology
In summary
From Middle English bakbon, bakebon, bac-bon; equivalent to back + bone. Compare the semantically analogous English ridgebone.
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Notes
