# vertebral

/ˈvɝtəbɹəɫ/ (US) · /vˈɜːtɪbɹəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vertebral
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

relating to the bones in your spine. These bones are called vertebrae and they protect your spinal cord.

For teachers: relating to or forming the vertebrae of the spinal column. Typically used in medical or biological contexts to describe the structure or function of the spine.

## Examples

- The doctor examined the patient for a vertebral injury.
- A vertebral fracture can be extremely painful and may require immediate surgical intervention to prevent nerve damage.
- The surgeon carefully navigated the vertebral canal to ensure the implant was positioned correctly without compromising the integrity of the spinal cord.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.