medulla oblongata
noun, plural medulla oblongatas, medullae oblongatae. Anatomy.
the lowest or hindmost part of the brain, continuous with the spinal cord.
Origin of medulla oblongata
1670–80; < New Latin: the long medulla
Words nearby medulla oblongata
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medulla of lymph node,
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British Dictionary definitions for medulla oblongata
medulla oblongata
/ (ˌɒblɒŋˈɡɑːtə) /
noun plural medulla oblongatas or medullae oblongatae (mɪˈdʌliː ˌɒblɒŋˈɡɑːtiː)
the lower stalklike section of the brain, continuous with the spinal cord, containing control centres for the heart and lungs
Word Origin for medulla oblongata
C17: New Latin: oblong-shaped medulla
Medical definitions for medulla oblongata
medulla oblongata
[ ŏb′lŏng-gā′tə, -gä′tə ]
n. pl. medulla ob•lon•ga•tas
The lowermost portion of the vertebrate brain, continuous with the spinal cord and responsible for the control of respiration, circulation, and other bodily functions.
Scientific definitions for medulla oblongata
medulla oblongata
[ ŏb′lông-gä′tə ]
Plural medulla oblongatas medullae oblongatae (ŏb′lông-gä′tē)
The lowermost portion of the brainstem in humans and other mammals. It is important in the reflex control of involuntary processes, including respiration, heartbeat, and blood pressure.