spin
Latinthorn, prickle, spine (backbone)
Variants:spinspina
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About This Root
From Latin spīna 'thorn, prickle,' later also 'backbone.' The backbone earned the name because its row of bony projections (the spinous processes) looks like a line of thorns running down the back. From this come spine (backbone / prickle / book edge / courage), spinal, spiny (thorny), spineless (lacking a backbone — figuratively, gutless), and spined.
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Associated Words · 6
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spine
The backbone; a sharp pointed projection; the bound edge of a book
spinal
Of or relating to the spine or spinal cord
spiny
Covered with spines or thorns; troublesome or difficult
spineless
Lacking a backbone; cowardly or lacking moral courage
spinet
A small, compact harpsichord or upright piano
spined
Having spines or sharp projections