Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Backbone
Back′bone′
(băk′bōnˊ)
, Noun.
[2d
back
, n. + bone
.] 1.
The column of bones in the back which sustains and gives firmness to the frame; the spine; the vertebral or spinal column.
2.
Anything like , or serving the purpose of, a backbone.
The lofty mountains on the north side compose the granitic axis, or
backbone
of the country. Darwin.
We have now come to the
backbone
of our subject. Earle.
3.
Firmness; moral principle; steadfastness.
Shelley’s thought never had any
backbone
. Shairp.
To the backbone
, through and through; thoroughly; entirely.
“Staunch to the backbone.” Lord Lytton.
Webster 1828 Edition
Backbone
BACKBO'NE
,Noun.