C1noun 2K

Spine

🇬🇧 UK /["/spaɪn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/spaɪn/"]/

Meaning of Spine

the row of small bones that are connected together down the middle of the back

In simple words: The row of bones in your back that keeps you upright.

Spine in a sentence

• A shiver went down my spine.
• the nerves in the spine
• These speeches form the spine of his election campaign.
• Their protests stiffened the spines of party activists.
• The legislature must grow a spine and demand these changes.
• Porcupines use their spines to protect themselves.
• Hedgehogs are covered with sharp spines.
• Once embedded in the skin, these savage spines are difficult to dislodge.

How to use Spine

Used in both medical and everyday contexts. In a formal setting, it may refer to anatomy, while in casual language, it might describe a person's strength or character (e.g., 'showing spine'). Avoid using it in overly informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of ‘spine’ as ‘line’ for ‘standing straight’.

Related words

Collocations with Spine

• fractured
• cervical
• lumbar
• bend
• curve
• straighten
• in the/​your spine
• the base of the spine
• the length of somebody’s spine
• curvature of the spine
• sharp
• fine
• poisonous
• bear
• have

Synonyms for Spine

• backbone
• vertebral column
• spinal column

Opposites of Spine

• weakness
• cowardice

Common mistakes with Spine

• Confused with 'spinal' which is an adjective.
• Using 'spine' to refer to the spinal cord, which is different.
• Mistaking 'spine' for similar-sounding words, such as 'spiney'.

Frequently asked questions about Spine

What does Spine mean?

The row of bones in your back that keeps you upright.

What is the definition of Spine?

the row of small bones that are connected together down the middle of the back

How do you use Spine in a sentence?

A shiver went down my spine.

Can you give another example of Spine?

the nerves in the spine

What are synonyms for Spine?

Common alternatives include backbone, vertebral column, spinal column.

What is the opposite of Spine?

Opposite meanings include weakness, cowardice.

What words go with Spine?

It commonly pairs with fractured, cervical, lumbar, bend, curve, straighten, in the/​your spine, the base of the spine, the length of somebody’s spine, curvature of the spine, sharp, fine, poisonous, bear, have.

What are common mistakes when using Spine?

Confused with 'spinal' which is an adjective. Using 'spine' to refer to the spinal cord, which is different. Mistaking 'spine' for similar-sounding words, such as 'spiney'.

How do you pronounce Spine?

US: /["/spaɪn/"]/, UK: /["/spaɪn/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Spine?

Used in both medical and everyday contexts. In a formal setting, it may refer to anatomy, while in casual language, it might describe a person's strength or character (e.g., 'showing spine'). Avoid using it in overly informal contexts.

What CEFR level is Spine?

"Spine" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.