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

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-gātə, -gätə ]

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-gätə ]

Plural medulla oblongatas medullae oblongatae (ŏb′lông-gä)

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.