backbone

[bak-bohn]

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.

backbone

/ 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

backbone

1. See vertebral column

backbone

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.

Other Word Forms

• backboned adjective
• backboneless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of backbone¹

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

Example Sentences

Members of the ethnic group have become the backbone of the mountaineering industry, bearing huge risks to carry equipment and food, fix ropes and repair ladders.

Read more on Barron's

"If Labour had a plan - or a backbone - they would get spending under control, cut the deficit and get taxes down."

Read more on BBC

"In the next 3–5 years, AI and GenAI will create close to 100 million jobs in training, validation, and real-time handling. India's small towns can be the backbone of this workforce."

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The duo form the backbone of the musical’s drama through the tension of Javert’s relentless quest to capture Valjean, who has broken parole and — as a reformed man — taken custody of the orphan Cosette.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

For all the attention the Brewers’ unique offense and one-of-a-kind manager have received this year, the club’s pitching staff remains the backbone of the team.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• foundation 
• spine