Synonyms for

Spine

Verb / spaɪn / Another word for spine — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The row of bones down the middle of the back that supports the body and protects the spinal cord.

Synonyms & similar words

thorn sticker spinalcolumn spur prickle back acantha pricker spikelet rachis backbone vertebralcolumn backbone vertebrae chine back rachis axis backbone thorn prickle spike shoot

Synonyms by register

Formal

vertebral column backbone rachis

Informal

back ridge

Literary

chime column

Antonyms

belly front face forefront exterior outside

Common collocations

  • spine of the book
  • spine of the mountain
  • spinal cord
  • broken spine
  • her spine
  • straighten your spine
  • spine-tingling

Word family

noun spine
adjective spinal

Usage note

While 'spine' can refer to the backbone, it's also commonly used metaphorically for courage or the central part of a book or object. 'Spinal' is the related adjective.

Example sentences

  1. I felt a sharp pain in my spine.
  2. The doctor took an x-ray of her spine.
  3. A snake's spine is very flexible.
  4. He has a strong spine and good posture.
  5. She had surgery to correct a problem with her spine.

Quotes

  • "I have a backbone, not a wishbone." - Unknown
  • "We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations." - Charles R. Swindoll
  • "The spine is the tree of life. Respect it." - Martha Graham

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