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English dictionary

vertebra Meaning & Definition

/ˈvɜː.tɪb.ɹə/

What Does Vertebra Mean?

As a noun, vertebra means Any of the small bones which make up the backbone.

Word Facts for Vertebra

Part of speechnoun
Pronunciation/ˈvɜː.tɪb.ɹə/
Syllables3
Synonymsspondyle
Pluralvertebrae

Vertebra Definition (Noun)

  1. Any of the small bones which make up the backbone.

Synonyms of Vertebra

Vertebra synonyms and antonyms →

Word Forms & Grammar

vertebra (plural vertebrae or (obsolete) vertebræ or vertebras)

Origin of Vertebra

Borrowing from Latin vertebra (“a joint”), from vertō (“to turn”) +‎ -bra (instrumental nominal suffix). Having multiple vertebrae (plural of vertebra) in one's backbone instead of having a single bone or solid spine, allows for the movement of the body with bends and turns. Hence meaning 1.

Vertebra Pronunciation

Vertebra is pronounced /ˈvɜː.tɪb.ɹə/ and has 3 syllables, with the main stress on the first syllable (vɜː).

Frequently Asked Questions About Vertebra

What part of speech is vertebra?

Vertebra is a noun.

What is another word for vertebra?

You can replace vertebra with words such as spondyle. See the full list of vertebra synonyms and antonyms.

What is the plural of vertebra?

The plural of vertebra is vertebrae.

More About Vertebra On Meaning Stash

More Words Starting With “Vert”