- 1[countable] the row of small bones that are connected together down the middle of the back synonym spine
Want to learn more?
Find out which words work together and produce more natural sounding English with the Oxford Collocations Dictionary app.
- 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.
Check pronunciation: backbone