The correct spelling of the phrase "life cord" is /laɪf kɔːrd/. The first part, "life," is spelled with an "i" because it comes from the word "life." The second part, "cord," is spelled with a "c" because it comes from the Old French word "corde." The combination of the "i" and "o" sounds is written as "oi" in English. The emphasis is on the first syllable, "life." The term refers to a cord used to sustain life in medical emergencies.
Life cord refers to a term that is primarily used in the medical context, specifically in embryology and obstetrics. It refers to the umbilical cord, which is a flexible tubular structure that connects the fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. The life cord is a vital lifeline for the developing fetus, as it allows the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the fetus and the mother.
The life cord is composed of three blood vessels - two arteries and one vein - surrounded by a protective jelly-like substance known as Wharton's jelly. The artery carries deoxygenated blood and waste products away from the fetus to the placenta for elimination, while the vein transports oxygenated blood and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus. This constant flow of blood through the life cord facilitates the fetus's growth and development.
During childbirth, the life cord is clamped and cut, which signifies the physical separation of the baby from the mother. The remaining stump on the newborn's belly is called the umbilicus or belly button, where the life cord eventually dries out and falls off, leaving behind a small scar.
In conclusion, the life cord, also known as the umbilical cord, is an essential structure that connects the fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. It acts as a conduit for the exchange of nutrients and waste products, ensuring the fetus's growth and development.
The word "life cord" does not have a specific etymology as it is not a widely recognized term. It appears to be a combination of the words "life" and "cord", which are both derived from different roots.
The word "life" comes from the Old English word "līf", which is related to the Old High German word "līb" and the Gothic word "liban", all meaning "life" or "existence".
On the other hand, the word "cord" comes from the Latin word "chorda", ultimately derived from the Greek word "khordē", meaning "string" or "cord".
Therefore, while the individual words have their own etymology, the combination "life cord" does not have a unique origin as a specific term.