notochord

noun no·to·chord \ ˈnō-tə-ˌkȯrd \

Definition of notochord

: a longitudinal flexible rod of cells that in the lowest chordates (such as a lancelet or a lamprey) and in the embryos of the higher vertebrates forms the supporting axis of the body

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notochordal

play \ˌnō-tə-ˈkȯr-dᵊl\ adjective

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Recent Examples of notochord from the Web

But several fossils revealed that the band bore the hallmark traits of a notochord, the rubbery tube surrounding some primitive vertebrates’ spinal cords.

— michael greshko, National Geographic, "Scientists Finally Know What Kind of Monster a Tully Monster Was," 16 Mar. 2016
Instead what’s called a notochord, a flexible rod of tissue, extends along hagfish backs.

— susan milius, WIRED, "Hagfish May Absorb Carcasses With Their Skin, Gills," 2 Mar. 2011

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'notochord.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of notochord

Greek nōton, nōtos back + Latin chorda cord — more at cord

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1848

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

notochord

noun no·to·chord \ ˈnōt-ə-ˌkȯ(ə)rd \

medical Definition of notochord

: a longitudinal flexible rod of cells that in the lowest chordates (as a lancelet or a lamprey) and in the embryos of the higher vertebrates forms the supporting axis of the body, that is almost obliterated in the adult of the higher vertebrates as the bodies of the vertebrae develop, and that arises as an outgrowth from the dorsal lip of the blastopore extending forward between epiblast and hypoblast in the middorsal line

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