spinal

1 of 2

adjective

spi·​nal ˈspī-nᵊl 

1

: of, relating to, or situated near the spinal column

2

a

: of, relating to, or affecting the spinal cord

spinal reflexes

b

: having the spinal cord functionally isolated (as by surgical section) from the brain

experiments on spinal animals

3

: of, relating to, or resembling a spine

spinal

2 of 2

noun

: a spinal anesthetic

Examples of spinal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

While some sleepers prefer a firmer feel, a medium or medium-firm option that offers the same amount of lumbar support and delivers the same spinal alignment would give the mattress broader appeal. —Nina Derwin, Architectural Digest, 31 Oct. 2024

Measuring these changes involves a complex process of tapping into the cerebral spinal fluid, a procedure not commonly used in clinical practice. —William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Noun

The center-third of the bed is reinforced to keep the low back and hips slightly lifted (designed to promote natural spinal alignment), while two sturdy coil layers help prevent sinkage and push back on heavier joints for extra support. —Ashley Zlatopolsky, Architectural Digest, 25 Oct. 2024

The family has been based in Charlotte for years, but recently moved to Mt. Pleasant, S.C., for Mark’s job as a spinal surgeon. —Jane Lacroix, Peoplemag, 18 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1944, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing spinal

• spinal canal
• spinal cavity
• spinal column
• spinal cord
• spinal ganglion
• spinal nerve
• spinal tap

Kids Definition

spinal

adjective

spi·​nal

ˈspīn-ᵊl

1

: of, relating to, or located near the backbone

2

: of, relating to, or affecting the spinal cord

Medical Definition

spinal

1 of 2 adjective

spi·​nal ˈspīn-ᵊl 

1

: of, relating to, or situated near the spinal column

2

a

: of, relating to, or affecting the spinal cord

spinal reflexes

b

: having the spinal cord functionally isolated (as by surgical section) from the brain

experiments on spinal animals

c

: used for spinal anesthesia

a spinal anesthetic

3

: made for or fitted to the spinal column

a spinal brace

spinally

-ē 

adverb

spinal

2 of 2 noun

: a spinal anesthetic