First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
spine
noun \ˈspīn\
: the row of connected bones down the middle of the back
: a sharp, pointed part on an animal or plant
: courage or strength of character
Full Definition of SPINE
1
a : spinal column b : something resembling a spinal column or constituting a central axis or chief support c : the part of a book to which the pages are attached and on the cover of which usually appear the title and author's and publisher's names
2
: a stiff pointed plant process; especially : one that is a modified leaf or leaf part
3
: a sharp rigid process on an animal: as a : spicule b : a stiff unsegmented fin ray of a fish c : a pointed prominence on a bone
— spined \ˈspīnd\ adjective
— spine·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective
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Origin of SPINE
Middle English, thorn, spinal column, from Latin spina; perhaps akin to Latin spica ear of grain
Related to SPINE
- Synonyms
- backbone, chine, spinal column, vertebral column
SPINES Defined for Kids
spine
noun \ˈspīn\
Definition of SPINE for Kids
1
: backbone 1
2
: a stiff pointed part growing from the surface of a plant or animal
Medical Dictionary
spine
noun \ˈspīn\
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