spine

noun

1
b
: something resembling a spinal column or constituting a central axis or chief support
c
: the part of a book to which the pages are attached and on the cover of which usually appear the title and author's and publisher's names
2
: a stiff pointed plant process
especially : one that is a modified leaf or leaf part compare prickle sense 1, thorn sense 1a
3
: a sharp rigid process on an animal: such as
a
b
: a stiff unsegmented fin ray of a fish
c
: a pointed prominence on a bone
spined adjective
spinelike adjective

Examples of spine in a Sentence

This X-ray shows her spine. Hedgehogs are covered with spines. They lack the spine to do what needs to be done.
Recent Examples on the Web The formation of the spine and brain (neural tube) of the baby happens primarily during the first trimester, so given choline is critical for this process, adequate choline intake during the first trimester is likely most important. Casey Seiden, Parents, 15 Mar. 2024 The center of the mattress, for instance, has a high concentration of high-gauge coils to provide your lumbar spine with extra support. Sarah Madaus, Allure, 14 Mar. 2024 But though the search for Joy’s whereabouts comprises the series’ narrative spine, its heart lies in the family drama that got Joy to that place. Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Mar. 2024 The new species was identified by its arms, spines, body shape, coloring and other subtle physical features, the study said. Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2024 When combined with its firmness, a memory foam pillow can help maintain the spine’s natural alignment. Brianna Kamienski, The Arizona Republic, 23 Feb. 2024 If the thought of adding daily SPF to your skin care routine sends shivers down your spine, the best sunscreens for sensitive skin can help. Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 21 Feb. 2024 Over the past five years, she’s been in and out of the hospital for radiation, chemotherapy, surgeries and hormone therapy, as the cancer spread to her liver, lymph nodes, spine and bones. Sophia Liang, The Courier-Journal, 23 Feb. 2024 While there's no one-size-fits-all recommendation, experts generally advise sleeping in a position that feels the most neutral, aligning the head and spine. Max Bennett, Discover Magazine, 20 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'spine.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, thorn, spinal column, from Latin spina; perhaps akin to Latin spica ear of grain

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of spine was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near spine

Cite this Entry

“Spine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spine. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

spine

noun
1
b
: something resembling a backbone
c
: the part of a book to which the pages are attached
2
: a stiff pointed usually sharp projecting part of a plant or animal
protective spines cover the body of a porcupine fish
cactus spines are formed from leaves
Etymology

Middle English spine "thorn, spinal column," from Latin spina (same meaning) — related to porcupine

Medical Definition

spine

noun
1
2
: a pointed prominence or process (as on a bone)

More from Merriam-Webster on spine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!