Backbone

/ˈbækboʊn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the small of the back, enclosing the spinal cord.

The injury to his backbone left him paralyzed from the waist down.

A central supportive element; the mainstay.

Education is often considered the backbone of a prosperous society.

Courage and fortitude; moral strength.

She showed great backbone in standing up for her beliefs during the debate.

Middle English bakbon, compounded of back + bone.

have a backbone

To possess courage or determination.

strengthen one's backbone

To bolster one’s resolve or determination.

show backbone

To demonstrate courage or fortitude in a difficult situation.

spinal column

The part of the skeleton that runs along the back.

vertebra

Any of the small bones forming the backbone.

fortitude

Courage in pain or adversity.

Having strong principles or moral integrity.

She really showed her backbone when she refused to lie.

Resilience in difficult situations.

He proved he has backbone by facing the crisis head-on.