(1) The series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord
"The fall broke his back"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From , from vertere, "to turn". Having multiple vertebrae (plural of vertebra) in one's backbone instead of having a single bone or solid spine, allows for the movement of the body with bends and turns. Hence meaning 1.
Noun
Any of the small bones which make up the backbone.
