backbone
Translation
backbone, spine, mainstay, resolve
Examples
The doctor examined his backbone.
The doctor examined his backbone.
She has the backbone to stand up for her beliefs.
She has the backbone to stand up for her beliefs.
Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.
Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.
Grammar Patterns
the backbone of ((sth.)) Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.
to have the backbone to ((do sth.)) She has the backbone to stand up for her beliefs.
Similar Words
Synonyms: spine (literal), courage, determination, core (figurative)
Etymology
A compound word from 'back' and 'bone', literally the main bone of the back.
Memory Tips
Picture the backbone holding up the entire body. This image works for both the literal meaning and the figurative meanings of 'main support' or 'courage'.