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.