chines

noun

plural of chine
as in spines
a column of bones supporting the trunk of a vertebrate animal uncovered the chine of some animal while digging in the backyard

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 chines At low speeds, the wide upper chines deliver stability and good fuel performance. — Tristan Rutherford, Robb Report, 8 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for chines
  1. spines
  2. backbones
  3. backs
Noun
  • The reason the cholla can ride along so well is that its spines are covered in backward-facing barbs that ensure they get stuck in the skin of their ride.
    — Philip Anderson, The Conversation, 8 July 2026
  • The khaki-to-ochre tint on the Wuthering Heights volumes’ spines is wear.
    — Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Definition of spines
Noun
  • Look under rocks for macroinvertebrates (animals without backbones, like stoneflies).
    — Carl R. Gold, Baltimore Sun, 18 June 2026
  • Data centers also need to be close enough to users and network backbones to provide fast digital services.
    — Sven Bilén, The Conversation, 16 June 2026
Definition of backbones
Noun
  • Elsewhere in defence, Liverpool will have their two senior left-backs — Milos Kerkez and Kostas Tsimikas — available, which may limit the opportunities for Luke Chambers (22) and Calum Scanlon (21).
    — Andy Jones, New York Times, 14 July 2026
  • Declutter Your Jewelry Box or Ring Dish These can often become catch-alls for loose earring backs, tangled necklaces, and random coins.
    — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 12 July 2026
Definition of backs

Browse Nearby Words

chine
chines
chink
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Cite this Entry

“Chines.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/chines. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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