backbone
Backbone (noun) means the column of connected vertebrae running down the back that protects the spinal cord. Example: “The X-ray showed no fractures along her backbone.”
How to Use Backbone
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe spine, or figuratively, the main support of something or someone's inner courage.
Word Forms
backbones plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The X-ray showed no fractures along her _____.
Etymology
From Middle English bakbon, a compound of back and bone.
Rhymes for backbone
See all rhymes for backbone →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “backbone” mean?
The word “backbone” means the column of connected vertebrae running down the back that protects the spinal cord. In plain terms, the spine, or figuratively, the main support of something or someone's inner courage.
How do you pronounce “backbone”?
“Backbone” is pronounced BAK-bohn (/ˈbækˌboʊn/ in IPA).
How do you use “backbone” in a sentence?
Here is “backbone” used in a sentence: “The X-ray showed no fractures along her backbone.”
What is another word for “backbone”?
Words with a similar meaning to “backbone” include spine, spinal column and vertebral column.
What part of speech is “backbone”?
“Backbone” is a noun.
Where does the word “backbone” come from?
The word “backbone” comes from Middle English. From Middle English bakbon, a compound of back and bone.
Is “backbone” a common word?
“Backbone” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “backbone” have?
“Backbone” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the column of connected vertebrae running down the back that protects the spinal cord.
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