The umbilical cord is a vital connection between a mother and her unborn child. The word "umbilical" is spelled /ʌmˈbɪl.ɪ.kəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. It begins with the schwa sound /ʌ/ and is followed by the consonant cluster /mˈb/. The second syllable is pronounced with a short i sound /ɪ/, followed by the consonant /l/. The final syllable has the schwa sound /əl/, followed by the voiceless velar plosive /k/. This spelling reflects the word's Latin origin, "umbilicus."
The umbilical cord is a vital anatomical structure that connects a developing fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. It is a flexible, tube-like organ that contains blood vessels and serves as a lifeline, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the growing baby.
The umbilical cord typically measures around 50-60 centimeters in length and is composed of two arteries and one vein. The umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood, waste products, and carbon dioxide away from the fetus, while the umbilical vein transports oxygen-rich blood, essential nutrients, and hormones from the placenta to nourish and support the developing fetus.
During the birthing process, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, separating the baby from the placenta. The remaining portion of the cord is then tied off, eventually shriveling and falling off, leaving behind the umbilicus or belly button.
The umbilical cord plays a crucial role in maintaining the well-being and development of the fetus before birth. It serves as a conduit for nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange. Additionally, it acts as a protective barrier, preventing infections and providing immune factors from the mother to the baby. The structure and function of the umbilical cord are essential in facilitating the nurturing environment required for fetal growth and development.
• The cord extending from the placenta to the umbilicus of the fetus, formed of the umbilical vein and two umbilical arteries embedded in Wharton's jelly.
• Funiculus umbilicalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In anat., a cord-like substance which extends from the placenta to the navel of the foetus.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "umbilical cord" has its roots in Latin. The term "umbilicus" means "navel" or "belly button" in Latin. The word "cord" is derived from the Latin word "chorda", which means "string" or "rope". Therefore, "umbilical cord" can be translated as "navel rope" or "belly button string" in English.