Spineless: meaning, definitions and examples
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spineless
[ ˈspaɪn.ləs ]
describing a person or animal
Lacking courage or strength; weak-willed.
Synonyms
cowardly, gutless, timid, weak
Examples of usage
- He's so spineless, he never stands up for himself.
- The spineless leader failed to make any tough decisions.
- She couldn't rely on her spineless friend when she needed support.
describing a plant or animal
Lacking a spine or backbone.
Synonyms
boneless, invertebrate, soft-bodied
Examples of usage
- The jellyfish is a spineless creature.
- Snakes are not considered spineless despite not having a traditional spine.
Translations
Translations of the word "spineless" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sem espinha
🇮🇳 रीढ़हीन (Reedheen)
🇩🇪 rückgratlos
🇮🇩 tanpa tulang belakang
🇺🇦 безхребетний
🇵🇱 bezkręgowiec
🇯🇵 脊椎のない (sekitui no nai)
🇫🇷 sans épine dorsale
🇪🇸 sin columna vertebral
🇹🇷 omurgasız
🇰🇷 척추가 없는 (cheokchuga eomneun)
🇸🇦 بدون عمود فقري (bidoon 'umud fiqrii)
🇨🇿 bez páteře
🇸🇰 bez chrbtice
🇨🇳 无脊椎 (wú jǐzhuī)
🇸🇮 brez hrbtenice
🇮🇸 án hryggjar
🇰🇿 омыртқасыз
🇬🇪 უხერხემლო (ukherkhemlo)
🇦🇿 onurğasız
🇲🇽 sin columna vertebral
Word origin
The word 'spineless' dates back to the 17th century, originally derived from the combination of 'spine' and the suffix '-less,' indicating a lack of spine or backbone. Over time, it has evolved to describe not only physical attributes but also character traits associated with weakness or lack of courage. The term has been commonly used in literature and everyday language to portray individuals or creatures that exhibit a lack of strength or resolve.
See also: spinet.