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

Trump and his spineless acolytes continue to lie to the American people. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025

Make no mistake: New York's seniors are paying the price for Lawler's weak and spineless leadership. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 20 Mar. 2025

Duplass’ Michael is a dud, sorta sweet but totally spineless. —Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Mar. 2025

Crudup is a wonderful actor, and Manders is also a tough part — one of Ibsen’s spineless and yet somehow not soulless creatures. —Sara Holdren, Vulture, 10 Mar. 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