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

Example Sentences

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

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Word History

First Known Use

1682, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of accessory nerve was in 1682

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Dictionary Entries Near accessory nerve

accessory gland

accessory nerve

accessory pigment

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Accessory nerve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accessory%20nerve. Accessed 1 Jun. 2023.

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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