Namesake dismisses NASA as spineless (4)

I believe the answer is:

meek

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'spineless' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives. Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for meek that I've seen before include "Forbearing" , "Gentle and self-effacing" , "Humble and obedient" , "Mild and timid" , "Humble and acquiescent" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.

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