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accessory nerve
noun
: either of a pair of motor nerves that are the 11th cranial nerves of higher vertebrates, arise from the medulla oblongata and the upper part of the spinal cord, and supply chiefly the pharynx and muscles of the upper chest, back, and shoulders
Examples of accessory nerve in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Britney began her lengthy message, alongside photos highlighting spinal accessory nerve injury, something the superstar previously revealed that she’s been suffering with.
—Rania Aniftos, Billboard, 6 Jan. 2023
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'accessory nerve.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1682, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near accessory nerve
Cite this Entry
“Accessory nerve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accessory%20nerve. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Medical Definition
accessory nerve
noun
: either of a pair of motor nerves that are the 11th cranial nerves, arise from the medulla and the upper part of the spinal cord, and supply chiefly the pharynx and muscles of the upper chest, back, and shoulders
called also accessorius, accessory, spinal accessory nerve
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