spinal column

American  

noun

spinal columns plural

1. the series of vertebrae in a vertebrate animal forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord; spine; backbone.

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spinal column British  

noun

1. Also called: spine.   vertebral column.   rachis.  Nontechnical name: backbone.  a series of contiguous or interconnecting bony or cartilaginous segments that surround and protect the spinal cord

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spinal column Scientific  

/ spī′nəl /

1. See vertebral column

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• spinal columns
  plural

Etymology

Origin of spinal column

First recorded in 1830–40

Compare meaning

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

• spinal cord vs. spinal column

Example Sentences

He severed a nerve between my uterus and spinal column that reduced my pain and dramatically improved my quality of life.

From Slate • Aug. 7, 2023

Many US citizens travel to Mexico for cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation and Brazilian butt lifts, which all require the injection of an anaesthetic into the area around the spinal column.

From BBC • May 27, 2023

There’s a reflex that ties different parts of movements along the spinal column together that aren’t normally linked.

From Scientific American • May 22, 2023

This helps exercisers avoid neck and back pain caused when a heavy load compresses the spinal column.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 4, 2022

The very first chords which Mademoiselle Reisz struck upon the piano sent a keen tremor down Mrs. Pontellier’s spinal column.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin