backbone

• Существительное с несколькими значениями: может обозначать центральную опорную структуру чего-либо, например сети или организации; личное мужество и решительность; позвоночный столб; корешок книги; или основную часть компьютерной сети, соединяющую другие сети.

A noun with multiple meanings: it can refer to the central supporting structure of something, such as a network or organization; to personal courage and determination; to the spinal column; to the spine of a book; or to the main part of a computer network that connects other networks together.

1. Spinal columnB1formalmedical

   The series of vertebrae forming the central axis of the skeleton, which encloses and protects the spinal cord.

   Позвоночник

   • The surgeon operated on the patient's backbone to relieve pressure on the nerves.
   • A strong backbone is essential for maintaining good posture.
   • Injuries to the backbone can lead to serious mobility issues.

   Synonymsrachisspinal columnspinevertebral column

2. Central supportB2formal

   A central, cohesive source of support and stability for a system, organization, or group.

   Основа

   • Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy.
   • The dedicated staff form the backbone of the entire organization.
   • Agriculture has long been the backbone of this region's prosperity.

   Synonymsanchorbasisbedrockbuttresscorecornerstonefoundationmainstaypillarsupport

   Antonymshindranceimpedimentliabilityweakness

3. Fortitude and determinationB2informal

   Strength of character, courage, and the ability to persist in difficult situations.

   Стойкость и решимость

   • It takes real backbone to stand up for what you believe in.
   • She showed remarkable backbone during the crisis.
   • He lacked the backbone to confront his boss about the unfair treatment.

   Synonymscouragedeterminationfortitudegritmettlenervepersistencepluckresilienceresolvespinetenacitywillpower

   Antonymscowardicepusillanimityspinelessnesstimidityweakness

4. Book spineB1formal

   The part of a book's cover that encloses the inner side of the pages and faces outward when the book is shelved.

   Корешок

   • The title was printed clearly on the book's backbone.
   • The library books had their call numbers on the backbone.
   • The backbone of the old book was cracked and worn.

   Synonymsspine

5. Network coreB2formalIT

   The part of a computer network that connects other networks together, handling the main data traffic.

   Магистраль

   • The company upgraded its network backbone to handle more data.
   • Fiber optic cables form the backbone of the internet.
   • A failure in the backbone can disrupt connectivity for entire regions.

   Synonymsspinetrunk