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Backbone: meaning, definitions and examples

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backbone

 

[ ˈbækˌboʊn ]

Context #1

anatomy

The backbone is the column of small bones that forms the central part of the skeleton of most vertebrates, providing support and protection for the spinal cord.

Synonyms

spinal column, spine, vertebral column

Examples of usage

  • The backbone consists of individual vertebrae stacked on top of each other.
  • Injuries to the backbone can have serious consequences for overall health.
Context #2

figurative

The backbone can also refer to the fundamental support or foundation of something.

Synonyms

basis, core, foundation

Examples of usage

  • Honesty and integrity are the backbone of a strong relationship.
  • Education is the backbone of a thriving society.
Context #3

technology

In the context of technology, backbone can refer to a high-speed network infrastructure that links together various smaller networks.

Synonyms

central network, core infrastructure, mainframe

Examples of usage

  • The company's backbone network ensures fast and reliable communication between different offices.
  • The backbone of the internet is made up of major network links around the world.

Translations

Translations of the word "backbone" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espinha dorsal

🇮🇳 मेरुदंड

🇩🇪 Rückgrat

🇮🇩 tulang punggung

🇺🇦 хребет

🇵🇱 kręgosłup

🇯🇵 背骨 (せぼね)

🇫🇷 colonne vertébrale

🇪🇸 columna vertebral

🇹🇷 omurga

🇰🇷 척추 (cheokchu)

🇸🇦 عمود فقري

🇨🇿 páteř

🇸🇰 chrbtica

🇨🇳 脊柱 (jǐzhù)

🇸🇮 hrbtenica

🇮🇸 hryggur

🇰🇿 омыртқа жотасы

🇬🇪 ზურგის ხერხემალი

🇦🇿 onurğa

🇲🇽 columna vertebral

Word origin

The word 'backbone' originated in the mid-17th century as a compound of 'back' and 'bone', referring to the central supporting structure in vertebrate animals. Over time, it has evolved to also represent the core support or foundation of various aspects, from anatomy to technology. The metaphorical use of 'backbone' highlights the essential nature of a strong and resilient framework in different contexts.

See also: back, backchat, backdrop, backed, backer, backers, backhander, backing, backline, backmarker, backpack, backroom, backside, backspace, backstop, backup, backward, backwards, backyard, unbacked.