chine 1
/chuyn/ , n. Brit. Dial.
a ravine formed in rock by the action of running water.
[ bef. 900; ME; OE cinu crevice, fissure; c. MD kene; cf. OE cinan to gape, crack open ]
chine 2
/chuyn/ , n. , v. , chined, chining .
n.
1. the backbone or spine, esp. of an animal.
2. the whole or a piece of the backbone of an animal with adjoining parts, cut for cooking.
3. a ridge or crest, as of land.
4. Naut.
a. an angular intersection of the sides and bottom of a vessel.
b. a longitudinal member running behind this.
v.t.
5. (in butchering) to sever the backbone of.
[ 1250-1300; ME eschine eschine ]
chine 3
/chuyn/ , n.
chime 2 .