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vértebra means vertebra — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 15, 2026

🩺 Medical Spanish

vértebra

noun • /[VER-te-bra]/

vertebra

Example:

La vértebra forma parte de la columna.

The vertebra is part of the spine.

🧠 What does vértebra mean?

A vertebra is one of the small bones that make up the spinal column. The spinal column, or backbone, is a central structure of the skeleton that protects the spinal cord and supports the head and torso. The term 'vértebra' specifically refers to an individual bone within this series, and collectively, these bones are known as 'vértebras' or 'huesos de la columna vertebral'.

📚 Extra examples

  • El radiólogo examinó las imágenes de la vértebra lumbar fracturada.
    The radiologist examined the images of the fractured lumbar vertebra.
  • Una hernia discal puede ejercer presión sobre una vértebra adyacente.
    A herniated disc can put pressure on an adjacent vertebra.
  • La columna vertebral está compuesta por treinta y tres vértebras en total.
    The vertebral column is composed of thirty-three vertebrae in total.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'vértebra' comes from the Latin word 'vertebra', which itself derives from the verb 'vertere', meaning 'to turn'. This relates to the primary function of the spine in allowing movement.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "vértebra"

Synonyms: hueso de la columna vertebral

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'vertebra' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'vertebra' is 'vértebra'.
How do you pronounce 'vértebra' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'vértebra' is roughly 'VEHR-teh-brah'. The stress is on the first syllable, 'VEHR'.
How do you use 'vértebra' in a sentence?
'Vértebra' is used to refer to an individual bone of the spinal column. For example, 'Tiene dolor en una vértebra cervical' (He has pain in a cervical vertebra).
What is the English translation of 'vértebra'?
The English translation of 'vértebra' is 'vertebra'.
Does 'vértebra' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'vértebra' is a feminine noun. In the plural, it becomes 'vértebras'. For example, 'una vértebra' (one vertebra) and 'varias vértebras' (several vertebrae).
Is 'vértebra' common in everyday Spanish?
While the term 'vértebra' is precise and common in medical contexts, in everyday conversation, people might refer to back problems more generally using terms like 'dolor de espalda' (back pain) or discussing the 'columna' (spine).
Does 'vértebra' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'vértebra' does not typically have slang or double meanings. It is a specific anatomical term.
Is 'vértebra' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'vértebra' are consistent across Spain and Latin America, as it is a standard anatomical term.

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