backbone

[ bak-bohn ]

noun

1. Anatomy. the spinal column; spine.
2. strength of character; resolution.

   Synonyms: firmness, fortitude, decision

3. something resembling a backbone in appearance, position, or function.
4. Bookbinding. a back or bound edge of a book; spine.
5. Nautical. a rope running along the middle of an awning, as a reinforcement and as an object to which a supporting bridle or crowfoot may be attached.
6. Naval Architecture. the central fore-and-aft assembly of the keel and keelson, giving longitudinal strength to the bottom of a vessel.

backbone

/ ˈbækˌbəʊn /

noun

1. a nontechnical name for spinal column
2. something that resembles the spinal column in function, position, or appearance
3. strength of character; courage
4. the main or central mountain range of a country or region
5. nautical the main longitudinal members of a vessel, giving structural strength
6. computing (in computer networks) a large-capacity, high-speed central section by which other network segments are connected

backbone

/ băk′bōn′ /

1. See vertebral column

backbone

1. The primary line(s) that connects the slower, shorter cable portions of a communications network together. ( See last mile .) In larger networks, such as the Internet , a backbone consists of high-capacity, high-speed lines that can extend over great distances.

Other Words From

• backboned adjective
• backboneless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of backbone¹

1250–1300; Middle English bacbon. See back ¹, bone ( def )

Related Words

• foundation
• spine