n
1 [C] line of bones down the middle of the back from the skull to the hips; spine; spinal column 椎骨; 脊柱; 脊椎. =>illus at skeleton 见skeleton之插图.
2 [sing] (fig 比喻) chief support 中坚; 栋梁
*Such people are the backbone of the country. 这样的人是国家的栋梁.
3 [U] (fig 比喻) strength; firmness 力气; 坚定性
*He has no backbone, ie lacks stamina, perseverance, strength of character, etc. 他没有脊梁骨（缺少体力、毅力、坚强的性格等）.
4 (idm 习语) to the `backbone thoroughly 彻底地.

n
backbone, breastbone, collarbone, kneecap, pelvis, skull, spine, rib
[C]
the row of connected bones that go down the middle of your back
= spine
the backbone of sth
the most important part of an organization or group of people
　Farmers are the backbone of this community.
[U]
courage and determination
　Stuart doesn't have the backbone to be a good manager.