spine Hear it!

spine definition

spine (spīn)

noun

  1. any of the stiff, sharp-pointed, superficial emergences on a plant, as on a rose, thistle, or cactus
    1. a sharp process of bone
    2. any of the sharp, stiff projections on the bodies of certain animals, as the quill of a porcupine or a ray of a fish's fin
    3. anything resembling either of these projections
  2. the spinal column; backbone
  3. anything regarded as resembling a backbone, as
    1. a ridge of ground, crest of a hill, etc.
    2. the part of a bound book covering the backbone, and usually bearing the title and author's name
  4. ☆ courage, willpower, etc.

Etymology: ME < OFr espine < L spina, thorn, prickle, backbone: see spike

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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