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rachis

rachis

9.9
A series of bones that form the backbone and protect the spinal cord
  • noun
  • /ˈreɪkɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : raquis
  • The rachis supports the entire structure of the spine.

Examples

  • The X-ray showed that the rachis was undamaged after the accident.

  • A damaged rachis can lead to serious health issues.

  • In anatomy class, we learned the structure of the human rachis.

  • Some diseases can affect the flexibility of the rachis, leading to limited movement.

  • The doctor explained that damage to the rachis could lead to severe neurological issues.

  • An injury to the rachis can compromise the function of the spinal cord.

  • The surgeon carefully examined the rachis to ensure there were no signs of trauma.

Synonyms

spine
vsrachis
218 1.1

The long set of bones down the middle of the back that protect the spinal cord

is a more formal or technical name than this common expression
spinal column
vsrachis
  • Specialized
10 3.2

A row of bones from the head to the lower back that protect the cord of nerves inside

is an alternative anatomical term for the same central bone series
backbone
vsrachis
9 3.0

The row of bones that runs down the middle of the back and supports the body

is a more technical or Latin-derived term than this everyday word
vertebral column
vsrachis
  • Specialized
1 4.3

A row of bones running down the middle of the back that protects the spinal cord

is a shorter scientific name for the same anatomical axis
rach
vsrachis
  • Archaic
9.9

A column of bones down the back that supports the body

is the modern Latin anatomical term rather than the archaic form

Surface Forms

rachis singular
rachises plural

Etymology

Rachis comes from the Greek rhachis, which means 'spine' or 'backbone'. In anatomy it refers to the spine or backbone that supports the body and protects the nerves inside, so the word keeps the idea of a central support.