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

• characterless
• effete
• frail
• invertebrate
• limp-wristed
• milk-and-water
• namby-pamby
• nerveless
• soft
• weak
• weak-kneed
• weakened
• weakling
• wet [British]
• wimpish
• wimpy
• wishy-washy

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

Maybe, when seeing these mass rallies, spineless congressional Republicans might fear for their jobs more from the people than the dictator-in-chief. —Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 12 May 2025

Some great options include small palms, hardy banana, cannas, hibiscus, spineless succulents, bedding flowers, and grasses. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 7 May 2025

Even some spineless Republicans in Congress—who should be carrying President Trump's flag—are trembling instead of cheering his fight for America's soul. —Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Apr. 2025

Trump and his spineless acolytes continue to lie to the American people. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Apr. 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