backbone

noun

ˈbak-ˈbōn How to pronounce backbone (audio)
Definition of backbonenext
1
as in spine
a column of bones supporting the trunk of a vertebrate animal found the backbone of a fish lying on the beach

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in courage
the strength of mind that enables a person to endure pain or hardship it takes backbone to stand up to the kind of suffering that some cancer patients must endure

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of backbone The intersection of the crosswires in the Redfield 4X scope had been exactly behind the foreleg and about halfway down from the backbone when the rifle went off. — Jack O'Connor, Outdoor Life, 8 July 2026 Barton rye was the backbone of many brands in the budding craft whiskey scene of the 2000s and 2010s. — Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 GoDaddy famously sponsored racecar driver Danica Patrick, while WordPress forms the backbone of countless sites. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 7 July 2026 Guerrero plays Esperanza Diaz, a former wrestler who is Myron’s indispensable right hand, keeping everything in order while serving as the backbone for their sports agency. — Naomi Jeffries, HollywoodReporter, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for backbone
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backbone
  1. spine
  2. courage
  3. fortitude
  4. fiber
  5. stamina
  6. grit
  7. guts
  8. bravery
Noun
  • Its internal mechanical architecture is modeled on the human spine and musculoskeletal system, using synthetic muscle-like actuators that enable fluid, natural movements.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 16 July 2026
  • Against Spain, Deschamps’ problems arose throughout his team’s spine.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 16 July 2026
Definition of spine
Noun
  • At their best, natural leaders with the courage to take on what others won’t.
    — Christina Pérez, Vogue, 17 July 2026
  • Its concluding images emphasise a clichéd concept of motherhood, as though to put a neat bow on what was in fact a more complex story of trust, patience and everyday courage.
    — Elena Lazic, Variety, 15 July 2026
Definition of courage
Noun
  • They were blown away by his focus, drive, mentality and fortitude.
    — Tony Jones, New York Times, 10 July 2026
  • In one particular test, participants were submerged in a sensory deprivation tank, a test meant to measure a participant's mental fortitude.
    — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 9 July 2026
Definition of fortitude
Noun
  • Tips for a Balanced Breakfast Protein can help balance a rise in blood sugar levels, while fiber can help contribute to protein’s ability to promote satiety and feelings of fullness.
    — Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 5 July 2026
  • During this curing stage, chemical reactions harden the resin and lock the fibers together into a strong, lightweight structure.
    — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 5 July 2026
Definition of fiber
Noun
  • The Estadio Azteca, which will host the England game, sits 2,240 metres above sea level, which not only gives the hosts an acclimatisation advantage but shifts greater focus onto physical stamina and endurance.
    — Colin Millar, New York Times, 4 July 2026
  • The rucking vest has moved from military training grounds into mainstream fitness gear, and 2026 has delivered a wave of new options built for people who want to add strength and stamina to a simple walk.
    — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of stamina
Noun
  • Selections include blue corn butterscotch pancakes in the morning, a slab bacon dish with cheddar grits in the afternoon.
    — Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
  • While there’s no denying my mom’s creative way with leftovers is delicious and resourceful, there’s something to be said for whipping up a pot of grits exclusively for this snackable, stackable dish.
    — Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 16 July 2026
Definition of grit
Noun
  • The first was a controversial climb-back over Egypt from two goals down; the second, a lightning strike of guts and glory in the final minutes to beat England 2-1 and book a spot in the World Cup final.
    — Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 16 July 2026
  • Madly sentient guts spill from the sitter’s back in swollen rivulets.
    — Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 15 July 2026
Definition of guts
Noun
  • The revolutionary leaders proved their character with sacrifice and bravery.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
  • Without their bravery and will to stand up to England, the most powerful military force in history up to that time, and fight for their right to be free, our United States of America would be a much different place.
    — Richard Lederer, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 July 2026
Definition of bravery

Browse Nearby Words

backbiting
backbone
backboned
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Backbone.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backbone. Accessed 18 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on backbone

Nglish: Translation of backbone for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about backbone

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