atlas vertebra

noun

Meaning

The uppermost cervical vertebra that supports the skull and allows for nodding motions.

Examples

The atlas vertebra articulates directly with the occipital bone of the skull.
A fracture of the atlas vertebra can be life-threatening due to its proximity to the brainstem.

Synonyms: C1, first cervical vertebra

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atlas vertebra

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈætləs ˈvɜːrtəbrə/

Definition

The uppermost cervical vertebra that supports the skull and allows for nodding motions.

Examples

The atlas vertebra articulates directly with the occipital bone of the skull.
A fracture of the atlas vertebra can be life-threatening due to its proximity to the brainstem.
The unique shape of the atlas vertebra distinguishes it from all other bones in the spinal column.

Synonyms of atlas vertebra

Words with a similar meaning to atlas vertebra:

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