backbone
/ˈbækˌboʊn/
NOUN
1. The spinal column
The series of bones called vertebrae that extends along the back and surrounds and protects the spinal cord.
1.1. Anatomy and spinal structure
Refers to the vertebral column in humans and other vertebrate animals, which supports the body and protects the spinal cord.
Synonyms
- spine
- spinal column
- vertebral column
- vertebrae
- chine
Examples
- The backbone protects the spinal cord from injury.
- The doctor examined the patient's backbone after the accident.
- The backbone provides structural support for the human body.
Related Words
- spinal cord
- vertebra
- intervertebral discs
- skeleton
- vertebrate
- lumbar region
- thoracic spine
- cervical spine
NOUN
2. Fundamental support or foundation
The essential supporting part, structure, or element on which something depends for its existence, operation, or success.
2.1. Essential foundation of a system
Describes the central supporting structure or fundamental component that enables an organization, system, institution, or society to function.
Synonyms
Examples
- Small businesses form the backbone of the local economy.
- Reliable infrastructure is the backbone of modern transportation.
- Trust is the backbone of a successful partnership.
- Agriculture remains the backbone of the country's rural communities.
Related Words
- structure
- core
- essence
- pillar
- underpinning
- framework
- foundation stone
- infrastructure
2.2. Essential members of an organization or group
Refers to the people or members whose contributions, work, or commitment provide the principal support for an organization, team, or community.
Synonyms
- mainstay
- pillar
- support
- foundation
- mainstay member
Examples
- Volunteers are the backbone of the charitable organization.
- Experienced nurses form the backbone of the hospital's healthcare team.
- The veteran players have become the backbone of the football club.
Related Words
- workforce
- staff
- personnel
- volunteers
- contributors
- supporters
- membership
- team
NOUN
3. Courage and strength of character
The quality of being brave, determined, and strong enough to face difficulties, stand up for one's beliefs, or resist pressure.
3.1. Courage and fearlessness
Describes the courage and inner strength needed to confront danger, opposition, criticism, or difficult circumstances without giving in to fear.
Synonyms
- courage
- bravery
- boldness
- fearlessness
- fortitude
- nerve
- guts
- mettle
- valor
- pluck
- spunk
- daring
Antonyms
- cowardice
- timidity
- cravenness
- faintheartedness
- pusillanimity
- spinelessness
Examples
- It takes backbone to speak out against injustice.
- She showed remarkable backbone when challenged by her critics.
- The employees admired their manager's backbone during the difficult negotiations.
Related Words
- heroism
- audacity
- intrepidity
- gallantry
- determination
- grit
- stamina
- resilience
3.2. Determination and firmness of character
Emphasizes the inner resolve and strength of will required to remain firm in one's decisions, principles, or convictions despite pressure or adversity.
Synonyms
- determination
- resolve
- resoluteness
- willpower
- firmness
- steadfastness
- tenacity
- fortitude
- purposefulness
- grit
Antonyms
- indecision
- irresolution
- vacillation
- weakness
- indecisiveness
Examples
- The leader had the backbone to defend an unpopular but necessary decision.
- It requires considerable backbone to remain committed to your principles.
- He demonstrated real backbone by refusing to compromise his values.
Related Words
- perseverance
- persistence
- conviction
- will
- endurance
- self-confidence
- moral fiber
- integrity