chines

noun

plural of chine
as in spines
a column of bones supporting the trunk of a vertebrate animal uncovered the chine of some animal while digging in the backyard

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of chines There are also chines running along the fuselage, which provide better aerodynamics, with lift being particularly improved for carrier operations. — New Atlas, 4 Oct. 2026 At low speeds, the wide upper chines deliver stability and good fuel performance. — Tristan Rutherford, Robb Report, 8 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for chines
  1. spines
  2. backbones
  3. backs
Noun
  • As appointed by production designer Valeria De Felice, the workspace is a literary dreamscape, lined with Persian rugs and bookcases displaying a rainbow of magazine spines.
    — Natalia Winkelman, Variety, 20 Sep. 2026
  • Yellow starthistle plants are gray-green and produce yellow, thistle-like flowers with stiff, long spines in late June and July.
    — Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 16 Sep. 2026
Definition of spines
Noun
  • The structural backbones of the phalanges are 3D-printed from PLA, while soft silicone interfaces provide friction and compliance when the fingers contact a branch.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026
  • More specifically, insects are invertebrates (animals without backbones) and are part of the arthropod phylum, which also includes spiders, crabs, and centipedes.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of backbones
Noun
  • The Atlanta Falcons have one of the best and brightest young backs in the game.
    — OutKick, FOXNews.com, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Ground and pound While the Tigers’ rushing attack struggled, the Hurricanes turned to the running backs to ice the game.
    — Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 4 Oct. 2026
Definition of backs

Browse Nearby Words

chine
chines
chink
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Cite this Entry

“Chines.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/chines. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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