backbone

American  

[bak-bohn] / ˈbækˌboʊn /

noun

1. Anatomy. the spinal column; spine.

2. strength of character; resolution.

   Synonyms:

   fortitude, decision, firmness

3. something resembling a backbone in appearance, position, or function.

4. Bookbinding. a back or bound edge of a book; spine.

5. Nautical. a rope running along the middle of an awning, as a reinforcement and as an object to which a supporting bridle or crowfoot may be attached.

6. Naval Architecture. the central fore-and-aft assembly of the keel and keelson, giving longitudinal strength to the bottom of a vessel.

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backbone British  

/ ˈbækˌbəʊn /

noun

1. a nontechnical name for spinal column

2. something that resembles the spinal column in function, position, or appearance

3. strength of character; courage

4. the main or central mountain range of a country or region

5. nautical the main longitudinal members of a vessel, giving structural strength

6. computing (in computer networks) a large-capacity, high-speed central section by which other network segments are connected

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backbone Scientific  

/ băk′bōn′ /

1. See vertebral column

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backbone Cultural  

1. The primary line(s) that connects the slower, shorter cable portions of a communications network together. (See last mile.) In larger networks, such as the Internet, a backbone consists of high-capacity, high-speed lines that can extend over great distances.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• backboned
  adjective
• backboneless
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of backbone

1250–1300; Middle English bacbon. See back ¹, bone ( def. )

Example Sentences

“Volunteers are the backbone of the Games,” LA28 chief executive officer Reynold Hoover said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 15, 2026

Mr. Powell vigorously defended the central bank’s independence, displaying a backbone that members of the congressional majority can only envy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 14, 2026

His mother, Laura, was the backbone of the family: strong-willed and devoutly Methodist.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

Fannie and Freddie buy mortgages from lenders and wrap them into bonds, forming the backbone for the U.S. housing finance system.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

Jinny put an awkward arm around the girl and gave her bony backbone a few hesitant pats.

From "Orphan Island" by Laurel Snyder

Related Words

• foundation
• spine