# backbone

/ˈbækˌboʊn/ (US) · /bˈækbəʊn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/backbone
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the spine

noun · CEFR B2

the row of bones that goes down the middle of your back.

For teachers: the series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the pelvis, forming the main support of the body.

- The doctor checked the curve of his backbone to see if it was straight.
- The injury to his backbone was severe enough to require several months of intensive physical therapy and specialized bracing.

Usage: Often used as a synonym for 'spine' in both medical and general contexts.

### 2. main support

noun · CEFR B2

the most important part of a system or organization that gives it strength.

For teachers: the chief support or fundamental structural component of an organization, system, or infrastructure.

- Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy.
- The high-speed fiber-optic cables form the backbone of the national telecommunications network, carrying the vast majority of data traffic.

Usage: Frequently used in the phrase 'the backbone of' followed by a noun phrase.

### 3. courage

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

the strength of character to do what is right, even when it is difficult.

For teachers: strength of character, resolve, or moral courage. Uncountable in this sense.

- He didn't have the backbone to tell his boss that he was quitting.
- The board of directors lacked the backbone to stand up to the CEO, even when the company's ethical standards were clearly being compromised.

Teaching tip: This sense is often used in negative constructions to criticize someone for being weak or indecisive.

## Examples

- Trust is the backbone of our friendship.
- Small businesses form the backbone of the local economy.
- The committee's rigorous data analysis served as the backbone of the final report, ensuring that every recommendation was grounded in empirical evidence rather than speculation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.