Backbone Definition

backbone
noun
  1. a central cohesive source of support and stability; "faith is his anchor"; "the keystone of campaign reform was the ban on soft money"; "he is the linchpin of this firm"
  2. fortitude and determination; "he didn't have the guts to try it"
  3. the series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord; "the fall broke his back"
  4. the part of a book's cover that encloses the inner side of the book's pages and that faces outward when the book is shelved; "the title and author were printed on the spine of the book"
  5. the part of a network that connects other networks together; "the backbone is the part of a communication network that carries the heaviest traffic"

"Backbone" in song lyrics

See how backbone is used in real songs:

  • "I get awkwardly sturdy with a frigid liquid backbone"
    Aesop Rock — Big Bang
  • "And I'm paid out my rectum, meaing my backbone"
    Black Moon — Who Got Da Props?
  • "With my nick nack patty wack def backbone"
    Lil' Bow Wow — The Dog in Me

Usage tips for "backbone"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "backbone" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for backbone to find words that pair well.

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