backbone
- (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.
Frequency
Pronounced as (IPA)
/ˈbækˌbəʊn/
Etymology
In summary
From Middle English bakbon, bakebon, bac-bon; equivalent to back + bone. Compare the semantically analogous English ridgebone.
Related words
rachis
main chain
strength of character
centre field
Rückgrat kręgosłup
columna vertebral
σπονδυλική στήλη
spina dorsale
ruggengraat
espinha dorsal
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