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

MND is a condition that affects the nerves found in the brain and spinal cord, which tell your muscles what to do.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 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

MS is an incurable condition which affects the brain and spinal cord and causes symptoms such as vision problems, fatigue, clumsiness, muscle spasms and urinary problems.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

Tipping died three days after he suffered a spinal cord injury while training at the police academy in Elysian Park on May 26, 2022.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

They could use X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to locate the bullet, reveal the damage to his ribs and vertebrae, and show that his organs and spinal cord were uninjured.

From "Ambushed!" by Gail Jarrow