backbone

/ˌbækˈboʊn/

/ˈbækbəʊn/

Other forms: backbones

Definitions of backbone

1. noun

   the series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord
   synonyms: back, rachis, spinal column, spine, vertebral column

   types:

   notochord

   a flexible rodlike structure that forms the supporting axis of the body in the lowest chordates and lowest vertebrates and in embryos of higher vertebrates

   chine

   backbone of an animal

   urochord

   a notochord of a larval tunicate typically confined to the caudal region

   type of:

   skeletal structure

   any structure created by the skeleton of an organism
2. noun

   a central cohesive source of support and stability
   synonyms: anchor, keystone, linchpin, lynchpin, mainstay

   type of:

   support

   something providing immaterial assistance to a person or cause or interest
3. noun

   the part of a book's cover that encloses the inner side of the book's pages and that faces outward when the book is shelved
   synonyms: spine

   type of:

   part, portion

   something less than the whole of a human artifact
4. noun

   the part of a network that connects other networks together
   “the backbone is the part of a communication network that carries the heaviest traffic”

   type of:

   connecter, connection, connective, connector, connexion

   an instrumentality that connects
5. noun

   fortitude and determination
   synonyms: grit, gumption, guts, moxie, sand

   type of:

   fortitude

   strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage