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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.

Cottray, the Martinez’s general manager, with his crisp blue jacket and yellow patterned tie, could have stepped out of “The White Lotus,” where the GMs are often the backbone of the story line.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

What it will do is add a savory backbone that makes the entire skillet taste like you spent much longer cooking than you actually did.

From Salon • May 19, 2026

Anti-gang units, officials say, form the backbone of the department’s crime fighting efforts in neighborhoods plagued by gang violence.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

The corridor's backbone is the historic Benguela railway, which runs west to east from Lobito to the Congolese border.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

I could use some of the Wright backbone now.

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson




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