Noun: notochord 'now-tu,kord
- A flexible rodlike structure that forms the supporting axis of the body in the lowest chordates and lowest vertebrates and in embryos of higher vertebrates
"The notochord provided structural support for the developing embryo"
Derived forms: notochords
Type of: back, backbone, rachis [technical], spinal column, spine, vertebral column
Encyclopedia: Notochord