notochord

noun no·to·chord \ˈnō-tə-ˌkȯrd\

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

— no·to·chord·al \ˌnō-tə-ˈkȯr-d^əl\ adjective

See notochord defined for kids

Origin of NOTOCHORD

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

First Known Use: 1848

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

—no·to·chord·al \ˌnōt-ə-ˈkȯrd-^əl\ adjective