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vertebral column

The series of vertebrae that extend from the cranium to the coccyx, providing support and forming a flexible bony case for the spinal cord.

Synonym: columna vertebralis, backbone, dorsal spine, rachis, spina dorsalis, spina, spina, spinal column, spine, vertebrarium. The series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord; the fall broke his back.