spinal cord

American  

noun

1. the cord of nerve tissue extending through the spinal canal of the spinal column.

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spinal cord British  

noun

1. the thick cord of nerve tissue within the spinal canal, which in man gives rise to 31 pairs of spinal nerves, and together with the brain forms the central nervous system

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spinal cord Scientific  

1. The long, cordlike part of the central nervous system that is enclosed within the vertebral column (spine) and descends from the base of the brain, with which it is continuous. The spinal cord branches to form the nerves that convey motor and sensory impulses to and from the tissues of the body.

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spinal cord Cultural  

1. The thick column of nerve tissue that extends from the base of the brain about two thirds of the way down the backbone. As part of the central nervous system, the spinal cord carries impulses back and forth between the brain and other parts of the body through a network of nerves that extend out from it like branches.

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Etymology

Origin of spinal cord

First recorded in 1830–40

Compare meaning

How does spinal-cord compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• spinal cord vs. spinal column

Example Sentences

The progressive disease destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that a person needs to walk, talk, swallow and breathe, according to the ALS Assn.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

According to the Mayo Clinic, meningitis is an infection and swelling of the fluid and membranes around the brain and spinal cord.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

The myelin sheath is a protective coating that surrounds nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.

From Science Daily • Apr. 15, 2026

MND affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, controlling muscle movement.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Five people had emerged from the darkness of the Berg, dressed in outfits that sent a chill racing down Mark’s spinal cord.

From "The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin)" by James Dashner