notochord
/ˈnoʊtəˌkɔrd/
noun
- A flexible rod-shaped structure that forms the main support of the body in the embryos of all chordates (including vertebrates), and in some adult animals such as lancelets.
- Scientists study the notochord to understand how the spine evolves.
- In vertebrate embryos, the notochord develops into the backbone.
- The notochord provides structural support in the early stages of an animal's development.