Synonyms for
Backbone
Definition
The column of bones that runs along the center of the back of some animals and provides support for the body; the most important part of something.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Antonyms
Common collocations
- strong backbone
- lack backbone
- develop backbone
- backbone of the country
- backbone of the team
- human backbone
- fish backbone
Word family
Usage note
Can refer to the literal spine of an animal or metaphorically to courage or strength of character. The metaphorical use is more common in everyday language.
Example sentences
- The backbone of a fish is made of bones called vertebrae.
- He showed a lot of backbone when he stood up to the bully.
- The backbone of the company is its dedicated employees.
- The backbone of the argument was the evidence presented.
- She needed to strengthen her backbone to handle the challenges ahead.
Quotes
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston Churchill
"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog." - Mark Twain
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." - Martin Luther King Jr.