© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

vertebra

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈvɜːrtɪbrə/

KK: /ˈvɜrtɪbrə/

noun
Definition

A small bone that makes up the spine, helping to support the body and protect the spinal cord.


Example

The doctor explained that each vertebra in the spine plays an important role in movement and stability.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that each vertebra in our spine has a specific function?
Sloth B
Really? I never thought about it that way.
Sloth A
Yeah, they all work together to support our body and protect the spinal cord.
Sloth B
That's pretty cool! It makes me appreciate my back more.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bone
segment
element
Antonyms
whole
unity
mass
Root Explanation

Vertebra → It is formed from "vertere" (meaning to turn) and the suffix "-bra" (from Latin, meaning a part or segment). The word "vertebra" refers to a segment of the spine that allows for the turning and flexibility of the back.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'vertere' which means to turn, and remember that a vertebra is a part of the spine that helps your back turn and move.

Visually Confused Words
evertebral
invertebral
evertebrate
evertebrata
veteran
terebra
subvertebral
prevertebral
Is this page helpful?