no·to·chord (n  t -kôrd )n. 1. A flexible rodlike structure that forms the main support of the body in the lowest chordates, such as the lancelet; a primitive backbone. 2. A similar structure in embryos of higher vertebrates, from which the spinal column develops. [Greek n ton, back + chord.]no to·chordal adj. |
notochord [ˈnəʊtəˌkɔːd]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Zoology) a fibrous longitudinal rod in all embryo and some adult chordate animals, immediately above the gut, that supports the body. It is replaced in adult vertebrates by the vertebral column
notochordal adj
| notochord (nt-kôrd) A flexible rodlike structure that forms the main support of the body in all chordates during some stage of their development. In vertebrates, the notochord develops into a true backbone in the embryonic phase. Primitive chordates, such as lancelets and tunicates, retain a notochord throughout their lives. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  notochord - a flexible rodlike structure that forms the supporting axis of the body in the lowest chordates and lowest vertebrates and in embryos of higher vertebratesurochord - a notochord of a larval tunicate typically confined to the caudal region spinal column, spine, vertebral column, rachis, backbone, back - the series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord; "the fall broke his back" |
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