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Definition of backbone noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

     

    backbone

     noun
    noun
    NAmE//ˈbækboʊn//
     
     
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  1. 1[countable] the row of small bones that are connected together down the middle of the back synonym spine
  2. 2[singular] the most important part of a system, an organization, etc. that gives it support and strength Agriculture forms the backbone of the rural economy.
  3. 3[uncountable] the strength of character that you need to do something difficult He doesn't have the backbone to face the truth.
See backbone in the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
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