1.
spine, back, line of the back
The line running down the center of the back, or the back as it relates to posture. Often used when talking about straightening or correcting one's posture.
Pronunciation
When referring to posture and the line of the back, the reading is せすじ. When referring specifically to the back muscles (as in exercise/anatomy), it is read as はいきん. The two readings represent different meanings.
Common collocations
- 背筋を伸ばす (straighten one's back, sit/stand up straight)
- 背筋が凍る (a chill runs down one's spine)
- 背筋がぞっとする (feel a shiver down one's spine)
- 背筋がピンとしている (have good posture)