Backbone

Definition of backbone:

part of speech: noun

The bone of the back, the vertebral column; also, firmness, stability of purpose, energy. ( Amer.).

part of speech: noun

The spine; firmness; courage.

Usage examples for backbone:

• Backbone of a vessel in wooden ships. "Boys' Book of Model Boats", Raymond Francis Yates.

• You've got the backbone to see it through? "The Dark Star", Robert W. Chambers.

• The small European force has always been the backbone of our armies; but in every battle native soldiers have formed the great majority. "Life and Work in Benares and Kumaon, 1839-1877", James Kennedy.

• You can't help that, and you're Scottish to the backbone in all that matters. "Johnstone of the Border", Harold Bindloss.