vertebral column
Americannoun
noun
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The series of vertebrae extending from the base of the skull to the tip of the tail that forms the supporting axis of the body in vertebrate animals. In humans and tailless apes, the vertebral column ends with the coccyx (tailbone). It encloses and protects the spinal cord and provides a stable attachment for the muscles of the trunk.
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Also called backbone spinal column, spine
Etymology
Origin of vertebral column
First recorded in 1815–25
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The team found part of the dinosaur's skull, a complete vertebral column extending to the tail, and nearly intact forelimbs and hindlimbs, said CONICET.
From Barron's ● Oct. 16, 2025
The cartilaginous vertebral column, which is the main body axis, may have anatomical modifications to withstand the extreme bending during the tail-whipping behavior.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 17, 2024
They also used two-dimensional shape analysis techniques to examine variation in the spatial distribution of mineral structures along the vertebral column.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 17, 2024
It is early days, but we have used gastruloids to study the process of somitogenesis, the process that generates the vertebral column and the muscles.
From Scientific American ● Nov. 9, 2023
Invertebral, in-vėrt′e-bral, Invertebrate, in-vėrt′ebrāt, adj. without a vertebral column or backbone: weak, irresolute.—n.pl.
From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 2 of 4: E-M) by Various
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