backbone

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Those dense, umami-packed centers become the backbone of the dressing.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

They are often dismissed as a punch line, but Roxane Gay explains why women’s book clubs are the backbone of a passionate literary culture.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

“He has been the backbone of our family,” said Maria, 56.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

They added: "Teachers and support staff are the backbone of our education system."

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Both were long chains made of four components, called bases, strung together along a stringlike chain or backbone.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee