spine

/spaɪn/
noun
  1. The row of bones down the center of the back that protects the spinal cord; the backbone.
    • A healthy spine is important for good posture.
    • She injured her spine in a car accident and had to wear a brace.
    • The doctor examined the X-ray of his spine for any fractures.
  2. The part of a book that shows the title and author, where the pages are attached.
    • The book's spine was cracked from being opened too wide.
    • He read the titles on the spines of the books on the shelf.
    • The library had a row of old books with faded spines.
  3. A stiff, sharp point on an animal or plant, such as a porcupine quill or cactus needle.
    • The hedgehog curled up, showing its spines to protect itself.
    • Be careful not to touch the cactus; its spines are very sharp.
    • She got a spine from a rose bush stuck in her finger.
  4. Courage, strength of character, or determination.
    • The team showed real spine by coming back from a three-goal deficit.
    • It takes spine to stand up for what you believe in.
    • He lacked the spine to tell his boss the truth.
  5. The central supporting part of something, such as a mountain range or a structure.
    • A long ridge served as the spine of the island.
    • The main road is the spine of the city's transportation system.
    • The Rocky Mountains form the spine of North America.
Antonyms
What does "spine" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean