Spine
/spaɪn/noun
The bony structure that forms the backbone of a vertebrate.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, the spine was often seen as a conduit for spiritual energy, connecting the physical body to higher realms.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*spei-
“to breathe or to blow, reflecting life force.”
Latin
Latin
spina
“thorn, prickle; also used for the backbone.”
Old French
Old French
espine
“thorn, spine, backbone.”
Middle English
Middle English
spynne
“the backbone or a sharp object.”
Modern English
English
spine
“the vertebral column of a vertebrate.”