backbone

Pronunciation:		'bak`bown
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Matching Terms:		backbond, backbone cabal, backbone site, backboned
WordNet Dictionary

	Definition:	[n] a computer network that connects other computer networks [n] (informal) fortitude and determination; "he didn't have the guts to try it" [n] the series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord; "the fall broke his back" [n] a central cohesive source of support and stability; "faith is his anchor"; "he is the linchpin of this firm"

	Synonyms:	anchor, back, grit, gumption, guts, linchpin, lynchpin, mainstay, moxie, rachis, sand, spinal column, spine, vertebral column

	See Also:	axial skeleton, canalis vertebralis, chine, coccyx, computer network, fortitude, intervertebral disc, intervertebral disk, notochord, skeletal structure, spinal canal, support, tail bone, vertebra, vertebral canal

Webster's 1913 Dictionary

	Definition:	\Back"bone"\, n. [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.

Computing Dictionary

	Definition:	The top level in a hierarchical network. stub networks and transit networks which connect to the same backbone are guaranteed to be interconnected. See also: internet backbone.

	See Also:	networking

Biology Dictionary

	Definition:	The spinal column, found in vertebrate animals, which runs along the dorsal side and contains the central nerve cord (spinal cord). The main structural feature of a polymer (chain-like) molecule from which many side chains branch off.

Thesaurus Terms

	Related Terms:	advocate, alpenstock, arm, athletic supporter, back, backing, bandeau, bearer, bottom, bra, brace, bracer, bracket, brassiere, buttress, cane, carrier, cervix, chutzpah, corset, courage, crook, crutch, determination, firmness, fortitude, foundation garment, fulcrum, gameness, girdle, grit, guts, gutsiness, guttiness, guy, guywire, hardihood, heart, heart of oak, intestinal fortitude, jock, jockstrap, mainstay, maintainer, mast, mettle, mettlesomeness, moxie, neck, nerve, pillar, pith, pluck, pluckiness, prop, purposefulness, rachis, reinforce, reinforcement, reinforcer, resoluteness, resolution, resolve, rest, resting place, rigging, sand, shoulder, shroud, spinal column, spine, spirit, sprit, spunk, spunkiness, stability, staff, stamina, standing rigging, stave, stay, staying power, stick, stiffener, stout heart, strength, strengthener, sturdiness, support, supporter, sustainer, toughness, true grit, upholder, vertebrae, vertebral column, walking stick, will

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