foramen magnum

[ mag-nuhm ]

noun

, Anatomy.

1. the large opening in the base of the skull forming the passage from the cranial cavity to the spinal canal.

foramen magnum

noun

1. the large opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes

Word History and Origins

Origin of foramen magnum¹

1880–85; < New Latin: literally, great hole

Word History and Origins

Origin of foramen magnum¹

New Latin: large hole

Example Sentences

The foramen magnum, the hole through which the spinal cord exits the head, was positioned directly under the skull, implying the child had an erect posture and walked on two legs.

From Science News

The foramen magnum, occipital condyles, and exoccipitals show no unusual features.

From Project Gutenberg

In a posterior view the foramen magnum and the four bones which surround it and together form the occipital segment are well seen.

From Project Gutenberg

The occipital segment consists of four cartilage bones, three of which together surround the foramen magnum.

From Project Gutenberg

Just external to the foramen magnum is a small foramen for the exit of the hypoglossal nerve (figs. 44 and 45, XII).

From Project Gutenberg

There are often a pair of prominent vacuities in the supra-occipital dorsal to the foramen magnum.

From Project Gutenberg