spine

noun

ˈspīn How to pronounce spine (audio)
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 For us, a baby who is delivered head down and is facing the mother’s spine, with their chin tucked toward their chest, has the easiest path out. — Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 29 June 2026 This is sending shivers down the spines of regular Democrats, who now sheepishly admit the party has been turned over to the left-wing loons. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 27 June 2026 The true story of the Texas spine surgeon who injured and even killed patients under his care takes center stage in the season 1 adaptation of the popular podcast. — Sara Netzley, Entertainment Weekly, 2 July 2026 Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana One of America's most breathtaking drives runs along the spine of the Rockies, past Glacier National Park's snowcapped peaks and lakes, across the Continental Divide. — Sarah Rose, Travel + Leisure, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for spine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spine
  1. vertebra
  2. backbone
  3. back
Noun
  • The vertebra or backbone was found in 1985 by a British Antarctic Survey (BAS) expedition, but was initially assessed as belonging to a large reptile, according to a statement from London’s Natural History Museum on Monday.
    — Jack Guy, CNN Money, 30 June 2026
  • From there, reverse the movement by flexing one vertebra at a time, starting at the neck and moving down through the mid-back and low back.
    — Danielle Zickl, Health, 15 June 2026
Definition of vertebra
Noun
  • Building a century of infrastructure What Bucyrus built in South Milwaukee fanned out across the country, shaping the backbone of modern America.
    — Malika Bowling, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • Brut Champagne gives the drink its backbone—its acidity stays crisp against the other players, keeping the drink focused and bright.
    — Joe Sevier, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 July 2026
Definition of backbone
Noun
  • Remain out of the water to avoid hazardous surf and NEVER turn your back on the ocean If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed.
    — Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 8 July 2026
  • They’re also equipped with two side pockets and a hidden back pocket to securely stow small essentials like house keys.
    — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 8 July 2026
Definition of back

Browse Nearby Words

spindrifts
spine
spine-chilling
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spine. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on spine

Nglish: Translation of spine for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spine

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