Pronunciation: [vˈɜːtɪbɹˌiː] (IPA) 
Vertebrae is a plural form of the singular word vertebra. It is pronounced as /vərˈtɪbri/, with the stress on the second syllable, and the final -e indicating it is plural. The spelling with -ae is derived from the Latin plural for the word vertebra, which means a joint of the spine. Humans have 33 vertebrae in their spinal column, and each one is crucial for the proper functioning of the nerves, muscles and organs in the body.
Vertebrae are the individual bones that make up the spinal column or backbone of a vertebrate animal. They form the central support structure of the skeleton and surround and protect the spinal cord.
The typical vertebra consists of a rounded or cylindrical body, a posterior arch enclosing a central opening known as the vertebral foramen, and various processes extending from the arch. These processes include the spinous process, which projects backward and provides attachment for muscles and ligaments, as well as transverse processes, which extend laterally and serve as points for muscle attachment.
The vertebrae are arranged in a specific order, with the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions making up the complete vertebral column. Each region has a distinct number of vertebrae, with different characteristics adapted to their specific functions and positions in the body.
One of the crucial functions of the vertebrae is to provide support and flexibility to the body, allowing movements such as bending, rotation, and extension. They also protect the delicate spinal cord and spinal nerves, which convey sensory and motor information between the brain and the rest of the body.
In summary, vertebrae are the segmented bones that form the main structure of the vertebral column, providing support, protection, and mobility to the animal's body.
A single bone of the backbone or spinal column of an animal; the bone's and joints forming the spine; the backbone itself; the different vertebroe are usually divided into cervical, or those of the neck; dorsal, or those of the back; lumbar, or those of the loins; and caudal, or those of the tail.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "vertebrae" originates from the Latin term "vertebra", which means "joint" or "joint of the spine". It is derived from the verb "vertere", which means "to turn" or "to twist". The connection between the Latin meaning and the anatomical structure is likely due to the function of the vertebrae proper which allow movement in the spine, allowing for twisting and turning motions.
