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📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Backbone: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：central support (backbone)

backbone 🔊

/ˈbækboʊn/

The most important part of something, like the main support in a structure or the key person in a group.

central support 🔊

➕

/ˈsɛntrəl səˈpɔːrt/

Refers to the most crucial element that provides stability and strength to a system, organization, or structure.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'back' (rear part) + 'bone' (skeletal structure), literally meaning the spine.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a backbone as the 'back bone' that supports your body or any essential system.

📖 Example

Reliable public transport is the backbone of a modern, efficient city. 🔊 Reliable public transport is the backbone of a modern, efficient city.

🔗 Collocations

backbone of the economy – the core sector that supports economic stability

backbone network – the primary infrastructure for data transmission

moral backbone – the strength of character or principles

🔄 Synonyms

foundation (n.) – the base upon which something is built or depends

core (n.) – the central and most important part of something

mainstay (n.) – a chief support or primary element

🚫 Antonyms

weakness (n.) – a lack of strength or support

periphery (n.) – the outer limits or less important part of something

🌱 Derivatives

backboned (adj.) – having a backbone; figuratively, possessing strength or courage

📖 Cultural Story

Etymology: from Old English 'bæc' (back) + 'ban' (bone). Originally the spinal column, now also metaphorically the core support in systems like business or technology infrastructure.

Meaning 2：spine (backbone)

backbone 🔊

/ˈbækboʊn/

The line of bones in your back that supports your body.

spine 🔊

➕

/spaɪn/

The series of vertebrae extending from the skull to the pelvis, providing structural support and protection for the spinal cord.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

Good posture helps to keep your backbone healthy and prevents back pain. 🔊 Good posture helps to keep your backbone healthy and prevents back pain.

🔗 Collocations

strong backbone – a healthy and resilient spinal column

backbone injury – damage to the vertebral column

flexible backbone – a spine that can bend easily without harm

🔄 Synonyms

spine (n.) – the vertebral column that supports the back and protects the spinal cord

vertebral column (n.) – the series of vertebrae forming the central axis of the skeleton

spinal column (n.) – another term for the backbone or spine

🌱 Derivatives

backboned (adj.) – having a backbone; in anatomy, referring to vertebrates