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Definition of backbone noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

backbone

noun
 
/ˈbækbəʊn/
 
/ˈbækbəʊn/
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  1. [countable] the row of small bones that are connected together down the middle of the back synonym spineTopics Bodyb1
  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. [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 American DictionarySee backbone in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic English
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Nearby words

aspiration
noun
 
 
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