26984 words

spine

6 definitions • 3 examples
1
the line of bones down the centre of the back that provides support for the body and protects the spinal cord:

Examples:

She injured her spine in a riding accident.
figurative The Apennine mountains form the spine (= central row of mountains) of Italy.
2
a long, sharp point like a needle growing out of an animal such as a hedgehog or a plant such as a cactus
3
the narrow strip where the cover of a book is joined to the pages, usually with the title and writer's name printed on it
4
the line of bones down the center of the back that provides support for the body
5
one of the thin, pointed objects that are part of the outer surface of some animals and plants:

Examples:

Be careful of the cactus spines.
6
the end of a book where the pages are attached and which usually shows the writer’s name and title on its outer part

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