spinous process

noun

, Anatomy, Zoology.

1. a spinelike process of a bone, especially the dorsal projection from the center of the arch of a vertebra.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spinous process¹

First recorded in 1725–35

Example Sentences

Austria team doctor Anton Wicker said Fanchini broke her right upper arm and had a fracture of the spinous process, while Miklos suffered a right-knee injury.

From Seattle Times

The vertebral column; the spinous process of a vertebra.

From Project Gutenberg

Supraspī′nous, above a spine or spinous process.

From Project Gutenberg

Subspinous, sub-spī′nus, adj. somewhat spinous: under the spinal column, or a spinous process.

From Project Gutenberg

The spinous process, slightly developed in the third cervical vertebra, gradually increases in size to the seventh, the spinous process of which, long and pointed, well deserves the name of the prominent which is bestowed on it; but it should not be forgotten that the spinous process of the axis is equally developed.

From Project Gutenberg