Learn English – Difference between “spine” and “backbone”

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Is there a difference between spine and backbone in use or in meaning? I think they both mean the same and can be replaced by each other. However, I'd say backbone is used more in figurative speech, but this is just a guess on my part.

Best Answer

Backbone and spine are both common names for the vertebral column, the series of bones from one's head to pelvis. In my personal opinion, backbone comes across as more of an informal name than spine.

It is worth noting that both of these words, however, have other meanings as well:

  • Spine can also be used to refer to a needle-like protrusion on plants and animals (among other things) such as a thorn. It can also reference the bound edge of a book.
  • Backbone can also be used to refer to nearly any fundamental support structure. For example, an internet backbone, which is the top level of inter-connectivity between core pieces of the internet.
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