noun
backbone
BAK-bohn
noun
1
The column of connected vertebrae running down the back that protects the spinal cord.
"The X-ray showed no fractures along her backbone."
2
The essential support or core structure of a system or organization.
"Small farms form the backbone of the local economy."
3
Firmness of character; courage.
"It takes backbone to admit you were wrong in public."
How to Use Backbone
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe spine, or figuratively, the main support of something or someone's inner courage.
Common pairings
the backbone of the economy
show some backbone
Word Forms
backbones plural
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The X-ray showed no fractures along her _____.
Etymology
From Middle English bakbon, a compound of back and bone.