vertebrate
n.n. an animal that has a backbone or a spine. This includes most large animals like humans, dogs, and fish.
n. an animal possessing a backbone or spinal column. The term refers to the presence of a central nervous system enclosed within a series of bony or cartilaginous vertebrae.
Humans are vertebrates with a backbone.
The scientist studied the development of the nervous system in various vertebrates to understand evolutionary patterns.
While invertebrates lack a backbone, vertebrates represent a significant evolutionary leap that provides structural support and protection for the spinal cord.
Adapted borrowing of French vertébré, from Latin vertebrātus (“jointed”) (see -ate (adjective-forming suffix) for more).
From the substantivization of the above adjective through the associated taxon's name (Vertebrata) (see -ate (noun-forming suffix) for more).