spineless

adjective

spine·​less ˈspīn-ləs 

1

: free from spines, thorns, or prickles

2

a

: having no spinal column : invertebrate

b

: lacking strength of character

spinelessly adverb

spinelessness noun

Synonyms of spineless

• weak
• weakened
• soft

Examples of spineless in a Sentence

a spineless man who let his wife make all the decisions

spineless seamen who trembled at the first roar of the cannon

Recent Examples on the Web

As one of the Brat Pack’s heartthrobs, Andrew McCarthy plays wealthy but spineless Blane, who eventually caves to peer pressure and bails on his burgeoning relationship with Andie. — Sezin Devi Koehler, Entertainment Weekly, 24 Oct. 2026

The spineless league hasn't said a word despite the women continuing to break an anthem rulebook provision that requires them to attend the performance. — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 Oct. 2026

Trump does not ask, but demands, and these spineless Republicans fall on their knees and yield to his wishes. — Arkansas Online, 9 Sep. 2026

And now the nation will probably never get back to normal because a spineless GOP can never admit that it’s been conned. — Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 22 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spineless

adjective

spine·​less ˈspīn-ləs 

1

: having no spines, thorns, or prickles

2

a

: having no backbone : invertebrate

b

: lacking spirit, courage, or determination

spinelessly adverb

spinelessness noun