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 brain and spinal cord are protected by layered membranes called the meninges.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

Meningitis is a potentially deadly infection causing the inflammation of the brain or spinal cord linings, which can lead to sepsis.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

This fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord and acts as a communication network that helps maintain the body's internal balance.

From Science Daily • Mar. 8, 2026

Because of her MS, a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, she uses an orthotic to walk and competes with an ankle foot orthosis in her boot.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

He recognized the symptoms of some type of meningitis, an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French