spine
spine Lexical Profile
spine Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the pelvis, enclosing the spinal cord and providing support for the thorax and abdomen; the backbone.
"Good posture helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine and prevents lower back pain."
The narrow, hinged part of a book cover that encloses the inner edges of the pages and typically faces outward on a shelf.
"She ran her finger along the spines of the encyclopedias until she found the volume she needed."
A hard, sharp, pointed projection on a plant (such as a cactus) or an animal (such as a porcupine or sea urchin), serving primarily for defense.
"The desert cactus is covered in stiff spines that protect it from thirsty herbivores and reduce water loss."
Resolution, boldness, or strength of character.
"It took real spine for the whistleblower to testify before the committee despite intense pressure."
• Rhymes for spine
Word Origin & Etymology
Entered Middle English via Old French espine from Latin spina, meaning 'thorn, prickle, or backbone', named for the sharp, projecting processes along the vertebral column.