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spine

Definition

The spine is the long, flexible bone that runs down the back of the body. It supports the head and torso, and it protects the spinal cord.

The spine is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae are stacked on top of each other, and they are connected by ligaments. The ligaments hold the vertebrae together and keep the spine flexible.

The spine also has discs between the vertebrae. The discs are made up of cartilage, and they act as cushions between the vertebrae. The discs help to absorb shock and protect the spinal cord.

The spine is divided into five regions: the cervical spine, the thoracic spine, the lumbar spine, the sacral spine, and the coccyx.

The cervical spine is the top region of the spine. It has 7 vertebrae, and it supports the head.

The thoracic spine is the middle region of the spine. It has 12 vertebrae, and it supports the rib cage.

The lumbar spine is the lower region of the spine. It has 5 vertebrae, and it supports the torso.

The sacral spine is the fused region of the spine. It has 5 fused vertebrae, and it is attached to the pelvis.

The coccyx is the small, triangular bone at the bottom of the spine. It is made up of 4 fused vertebrae.

How can the word be used?

The fish has a spine that runs down its back.

spine

Different forms of the word

Noun: spine (plural: spines).

Adjective: spinous.

Verb: to spine.

Etymology

The word "spine" comes from the Old English word "spinna", which means "thorn" or "spike". It was first used in English in the 13th century to refer to the backbone of an animal.

The word "spinous" means "having a spine".

The word "to spine" means "to pierce with a spine".

Question

What are the five regions of your spine?