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Definitions

backbone

[bak-bohn] / ˈbækˌboʊn /


NOUN
spinal column of vertebrate
Synonyms


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.

Those dense, umami-packed centers become the backbone of the dressing.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

But those islands have formed the roots of a national movement and the backbone of his election campaign.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

They are often dismissed as a punch line, but Roxane Gay explains why women’s book clubs are the backbone of a passionate literary culture.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

“He has been the backbone of our family,” said Maria, 56.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

At first, they tried to salvage the essence of their first model, placing the phosphate backbone in the middle, and the bases projecting out to the sides.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee