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notochord

noun no·to·chord \ ˈnō-tə-ˌkȯrd \
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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
—

notochordal

play \ˌnō-tə-ˈkȯr-dᵊl\ adjective

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Recent Examples of notochord from the Web

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Origin and Etymology of notochord

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

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
—

notochordal

play \ˌnōt-ə-ˈkȯrd-ᵊl\ adjective

Learn More about notochord

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about notochord

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