medulla oblongata

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural medulla oblongatas, medullae oblongatae.

1. the lowest or hindmost part of the brain, continuous with the spinal cord.

medulla oblongata

/ ˌɒblɒŋˈɡɑːtə /

noun

1. the lower stalklike section of the brain, continuous with the spinal cord, containing control centres for the heart and lungs

medulla oblongata

/ ŏb′lông-gä′tə /

, Plural medulla oblongatas ŏb′lông-gä′tē

1. 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of medulla oblongata¹

1670–80; < New Latin: the long medulla

Word History and Origins

Origin of medulla oblongata¹

C17: New Latin: oblong-shaped medulla

Related Words

• head
• intellect
• mind