/
ˈvəːtɪbrət/
n.
an animal of a large group (subphylum Vertebrata) distinguished by the possession of a backbone or spinal column, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes. Compare with
invertebrate.
adj.
relating to the vertebrates.
Etymology
C19: from L. vertebratus ‘jointed’, from vertebra (see vertebra).
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