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Definition of vertebra

vertebra

/ˈvɜːr.tɪ.brə/
ver · te · bra
Adverb:vertebrally
•
Plural:vertebrae
•
Adjective:vertebral
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vertebra Lexical Profile

vertebra Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any of the small, interlocking series of bones or cartilaginous segments that form the spinal column (backbone) in vertebrate animals, surrounding and protecting the spinal cord.

Example

"An MRI scan revealed a hairline fracture in her fourth lumbar vertebra after the skiing accident."

Word Nuance & Usage

'Vertebra' is the singular form referring to a single spinal bone, whereas 'vertebrae' (or less commonly 'vertebras') is the plural form; in everyday speech, 'vertebrae' is frequently misused as a singular noun.

• Nearby Words

version
versioning
versus
vertebra
vertebral
vertebrate
vertex

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century directly from Latin 'vertebra' (meaning 'joint' or 'bone of the spine'), derived from the verb 'vertere' ('to turn'), referring to the pivoting motion of the spinal column.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Vertebra. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/vertebra
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