Spin"dle*worm` (?), n. (Zoöl.) The larva of a noctuid mmoth (Achatodes
zeæ) which feeds inside the stalks of corn (maize), sometimes causing
much damage. It is smooth, with a black head and tail and a row of
black dots across each segment.
Spin"dling (?), a. Long and slender, or disproportionately tall and
slender; as, a spindling tree; a spindling boy.
Spine (?), n. [L. spina thorn, the spine; akin to spica a point: cf.
OF. espine, F. épine. Cf. Spike, Spinet a musical instrument, Spinny.]
1. (Bot.) A sharp appendage to any of a plant; a thorn.
2. (Zoöl.) (a) A rigid and sharp projection upon any part of an animal.
(b) One of the rigid and undivided fin rays of a fish.
3. (Anat.) The backbone, or spinal column, of an animal; -- so called
from the projecting processes upon the vertebræ.