backbone Definition
- 1the series of bones in the spine that protect the spinal cord
- 2the most important or fundamental part of something
- 3courage and determination
Using backbone: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "backbone" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The backbone consists of 33 vertebrae.
Example
Education is the backbone of a nation.
Example
She showed great backbone in standing up to her boss.
backbone Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with backbone
Example
He has no backbone to stand up for himself.
to put all of one's effort, energy, and determination into something
Example
She put her backbone into finishing the project on time.
Example
Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.
Summary: backbone in Brief
The term 'backbone' [ˈbækboʊn] refers to the series of bones in the spine that protect the spinal cord, as well as the most important or fundamental part of something. It can also denote courage and determination, as in 'She showed great backbone in standing up to her boss.' Phrases like 'have no backbone' and 'put one's backbone into something' highlight the importance of courage and determination, while 'backbone of the economy' emphasizes the fundamental nature of something.