spineless

adjective

spine·​less ˈspīn-ləs 

1

: free from spines, thorns, or prickles

2

a

: having no spinal column : invertebrate

b

: lacking strength of character

spinelessly adverb

spinelessness noun

Synonyms

• weak
• weakened
• soft

Examples of spineless in a Sentence

a spineless man who let his wife make all the decisions

spineless seamen who trembled at the first roar of the cannon

Recent Examples on the Web

My candidacy is a symbol of the end of the weak-kneed, feckless Republican leadership of Mitch McConnell, and the spineless swamp jellyfish that are in the United States Senate representing the Republicans. —Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025

Because Republicans in Congress are spineless. —Callum Sutherland, Time, 1 Oct. 2025

Many Democrats, including progressives, said the move was spineless on Schumer’s part. —Julia Manchester, The Hill, 30 Sep. 2025

Within hours — in what could only be described as a spineless and cowardly move — the network and those broadcasters took the bait and silenced him. —Jason Bailey, Mercury News, 20 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spineless

adjective

spine·​less ˈspīn-ləs 

1

: having no spines, thorns, or prickles

2

a

: having no backbone : invertebrate

b

: lacking spirit, courage, or determination

spinelessly adverb

spinelessness noun