SPINELESS

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does spineless mean? 

• SPINELESS (adjective)
  The adjective SPINELESS has 4 senses:

1. weak in willpower, courage or vitality

2. lacking a backbone or spinal column

3. lacking spiny processes

4. lacking thorns

  Familiarity information: SPINELESS used as an adjective is uncommon.

 Dictionary entry details 

• SPINELESS (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Weak in willpower, courage or vitality

Synonyms:

gutless; namby-pamby; spineless; wishy-washy

Similar:

weak (wanting in physical strength)

Derivation:

spinelessness (the quality of lacking a strong character; an irresolute disposition)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Lacking a backbone or spinal column

Synonyms:

invertebrate; spineless

Context example:

worms are an example of invertebrate animals

Domain category:

zoological science; zoology (the branch of biology that studies animals)

Sense 3

Meaning:

Lacking spiny processes

Context example:

spineless fins

Antonym:

spinous (having spines)

Sense 4

Meaning:

Lacking thorns

Synonyms:

spineless; thornless

Similar:

unarmed ((used of plants or animals) lacking barbs or stings or thorns)