How Do You Spell PARACHORDAL CARTILAGE?

1. Parachordal cartilage is a type of cartilage found in the skull of certain vertebrates, particularly fish and amphibians. It is a paired structure located on either side of the notochord, which is an important embryonic structure that gives support to the developing vertebrate.

   This specialized cartilage is primarily found in the region surrounding the notochord in the base of the skull. It serves as a flexible and supportive framework that helps to protect and stabilize the delicate tissues of the skull during development.

   The unique properties of parachordal cartilage allow it to maintain the structural integrity of the skull while still providing flexibility for movements and growth. It is composed of densely packed collagen fibers and is more flexible than other types of cartilage found in the body. This flexibility is essential for accommodating the growth of the skull and the developing brain.

   Parachordal cartilage also plays a crucial role in the formation and support of certain cranial structures, such as the ethmoid plate and parachordal cartilage rods. These structures contribute to the overall shape and stability of the skull.

   In summary, parachordal cartilage is a specialized type of cartilage found in the skull of fish and amphibians. It provides flexibility and support to the developing cranial structures, ensuring their proper growth and protection.

2. The anterior cartilaginous investment of the notochord preceding the formation of the chondrocranium.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PARACHORDAL CARTILAGE

The term "parachordal" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "para" meaning "beside" or "alongside", and "chordal" referring to "chord" or "cord". So, "parachordal" essentially means "beside the chord".

"Cartilage" has a different origin. It derives from the Latin word "cartilago", which means "gristle" or "substance between the ribs". The Latin term further originates from the Greek word "kertalē", meaning "small piece of meat".

Therefore, the etymology of "parachordal cartilage" combines "parachordal" from Greek meaning "beside the chord" and "cartilage" from Latin meaning "gristle" or "substance between the ribs".