foramen magnum

noun

fo·​ra·​men mag·​num fə-ˌrā-mən-ˈmag-nəm How to pronounce foramen magnum (audio)
: the opening in the skull through which the spinal cord passes to become the medulla oblongata

Examples of foramen magnum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web That brings us to the most relevant hominin-like feature, the position of the foramen magnum. Bridget Alex, Discover Magazine, 26 Apr. 2019 The foramen magnum is the opening at the base of the skull where the spinal cord exits. Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 15 May 2020 For example, the location of the foramen magnum, the opening in the skull for the spinal cord, reveals whether its possessor orients horizontally or vertically. David P. Barash, WSJ, 16 June 2021 Though the fossil exhibited apelike features, the position of the foramen magnum, or the opening that allows the spinal cord and brain to meet, convinced Dart that the child had walked upright like a human. Smithsonian, 27 Mar. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'foramen magnum.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, literally, large opening

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of foramen magnum was in 1857

Dictionary Entries Near foramen magnum

Cite this Entry

“Foramen magnum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foramen%20magnum. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

foramen magnum

noun
fo·​ra·​men mag·​num fə-ˌrā-mən-ˈmag-nəm How to pronounce foramen magnum (audio)
: the opening in the skull through which the spinal cord joins the brain

Medical Definition

foramen magnum

noun
foramen mag·​num -ˈmag-nəm How to pronounce foramen magnum (audio)
: the opening in the skull through which the spinal cord passes to become the medulla oblongata

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