backbone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A packet can lend instant backbone to a quick enchilada sauce, wake up a pan of chilaquiles or give nacho toppings a little extra swagger.

From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026

There’s doubt massive tankers, once the backbone of global crude flows, will be returning in quite the same numbers to the Middle East.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

“Public hospitals are the backbone of our healthcare system,” Ahrens said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Artificial intelligence grabs most of the headlines, but it isn’t the backbone of the economy yet.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

His arms were forged of steel, his backbone was the railroad, and in his veins was the coal that powered them both.

From "Ophie's Ghosts" by Justina Ireland