Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

backbone

[bak-bohn] / ˈbækˌboʊn /


NOUN
spinal column of vertebrate
Synonyms


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.

Nvidia meanwhile can be the standardized technology backbone for autonomous vehicles that Uber can utilize and monetize, they say.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

All of them came through the academy at the same time and have now become the backbone of the team.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Fannie and Freddie buy mortgages from lenders and wrap them into bonds, forming the backbone for the U.S. housing finance system.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

My supermarket frequently runs 10-for-$10 deals on canned goods, which is essentially my signal to replenish the pantry backbone: black beans, chickpeas, navy beans, diced tomatoes.

From Salon • May 22, 2026

“I have maintained for years,” Moore wrote, “that one hundred well-disciplined persons could break the backbone of segregated travel in North Carolina in less than a year.”

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson




Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "backbone" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com