spine

Definition of spinenext
as in vertebra
a column of bones supporting the trunk of a vertebrate animal he hurt his spine in the accident, but the doctor says he'll be walking again in no time

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 spine Edmunds provided the spine of the Bears defense with athleticism and coverage ability. Daniel Popper, New York Times, 9 Mar. 2026 One of the rounds severed Carrillo’s spine, leaving him permanently paralyzed. James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 9 Mar. 2026 With its closure, another piece of South First’s cultural spine disappears. Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026 One unidentified deputy immediately fired four shots, hitting Tranckino on her right side, injuring her spine, according to the video and her attorney. Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spine
Noun
  • They have not been helped by knee problems for star sprinter Tim Merlier and a broken spinal vertebra for new signing Laurenz Rex.
    Andy McGrath, New York Times, 28 Feb. 2026
  • Another was almost certainly beheaded; the first vertebra of their spine was cut and there was a big cut mark on their lower jaw.
    Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Big banks, seen as the backbone of any economy, also took a hit with JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup and Bank of America down over 2% each.
    Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 10 Mar. 2026
  • These protections, found in the First Amendment, form the backbone of American democracy.
    Brielle Miller, Baltimore Sun, 9 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Outhouse is one of three highly respected defensive backs at North Crowley.
    Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Mar. 2026
  • If people believe a technology is being built on their backs, the backlash that follows is difficult to reverse.
    Eric Schmidt, Fortune, 6 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Spine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spine. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

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