Spine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆด
spine
[spaษชn ]
Definitions
human anatomy
The series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the small of the back, enclosing the spinal cord and providing support for the thorax and abdomen.
Synonyms
back, backbone, vertebral column.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| spine |
Often used in medical or anatomical contexts to refer to the entire bony structure running down the back.
|
| backbone |
Used both literally to refer to the main bone structure in the back, and metaphorically to describe resilience or strength of character.
|
| vertebral column |
Technical term mostly used in medical or academic texts to describe the entire column of vertebrae.
|
| back |
Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the rear part of the human body from the neck to the waist.
|
Examples of usage
- The spine is made up of 33 individual bones called vertebrae.
- A healthy spine is crucial for overall body function.
biology
The rigid structure in the midline of the back of an animal, including the vertebral column and any structures derived from it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| spine |
Repeated |
| backbone |
Can describe the main support structure of a human or animal, or metaphorically refer to the central or most important part of something, or someoneโs strength and determination.
|
| chord |
More commonly used in music to describe a group of notes played together. In anatomical context, it refers to the notochord, an embryonic structure that is a precursor to the vertebral column.
|
Examples of usage
- The spine of a fish allows for flexibility in swimming.
- The spine of a bird is adapted for flight.
book binding
The back of a book, where the pages are held together.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| spine |
Used in a figurative sense to describe courage or determination.
|
| back |
The rear part of the human body or an object, typically from the neck to the end of the spine, or something situated at the rear.
|
| book backbone |
Specifically refers to the spine of a book where the title and author's name are usually found.
|
Examples of usage
- The title of the book was embossed on the spine.
- She ran her fingers along the spine of the novel.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The human spine consists of 33 vertebrae, which are divided into five regions: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal.
- Each vertebra is separated by discs that act as cushions, allowing flexibility and movement.
- The spinal cord runs through the spine, carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, the spine is seen as a symbol of stability and support, akin to the backbone of society.
- Many martial arts use the concept of 'spine alignment' to optimize strength and balance during movements.
- Spine tattoos often symbolize resilience and personal strength.
Science
- Research shows that proper posture can significantly reduce back pain and improve overall health.
- Scientists study vertebrate evolution to understand how different species developed adaptations related to their spines.
- Robotics engineers look to the design of biological spines for inspiration in creating flexible robotic structures.
Literature
- In storytelling, a 'spine' of the narrative refers to the central theme or plot that holds the story together.
- Many authors emphasize the importance of character development as the 'spine' that drives the narrative.
- In the world of books, the 'spine' is the edge of the book cover that holds the pages together and often displays the title.
Origin of 'spine'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'spine' comes from the Latin word 'spina,' meaning 'thorn' or 'backbone.'
- Old English used the term 'spina' as well, which highlighted its framework structure.
- The metaphorical sense of 'spine' also refers to strength and courage, as in being the 'spine of a story' or 'spine of a team.'
The word 'spine' originated from Middle English 'spine', from Old French 'espine', from Latin 'spina' meaning 'thorn, prickle, backbone'. The anatomical sense of 'spine' referring to the backbone was first recorded in the 14th century. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass various meanings beyond just the human or animal backbone.