neural tube

noun

: the hollow longitudinal dorsal tube formed by infolding and subsequent fusion of the opposite ectodermal folds in the vertebrate embryo that gives rise to the brain and spinal cord

Examples of neural tube in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Up to 70% of all neural tube birth defects can be prevented when people consume 400 micrograms of folic acid prior to conception, according to the California Department of Public Health. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado january 12, Sacbee.com, 12 Jan. 2026

Since then, Latina women have not seen any decrease in their babies being born with neural tube defects in their brains and spinal cords, which is why lawmakers are targeting tortillas. —Tori Apodaca, CBS News, 30 Dec. 2025

When the neural tube does not fully close, the backbone protecting the spinal cord doesn’t close and form either. —Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2025

Folic acid is also used to fortify flour and grain products, to help prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida in the womb. —Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 24 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for neural tube

• hypercube
• nanotube
• phototube
• boob
• cube
• lube
• rube

Medical Definition

neural tube

noun

: the hollow longitudinal dorsal tube that is formed by infolding and subsequent fusion of the opposite ectodermal folds in the vertebrate embryo and gives rise to the brain and spinal cord