What does medulla mean?
Medulla is a formal anatomical term for the inner or central part of an organ or structure. Its best-known application is the medulla oblongata, the upper part of the spinal cord where it continues into the brain and where major centres for breathing, cardiovascular control, and other automatic functions are located. The word can also describe the soft pith inside a plant stem and the innermost layer of a hair shaft. In general usage, “medulla” suggests a deep central core, while in technical writing it identifies a specific internal part. The term comes from Latin medulla, meaning “marrow” or “inner substance,” reflecting its long-established anatomical use.
nounThe inner or central part of an organ or structure, especially the spinal cord and the continuation of the spinal cord into the brain. The term can also refer to the soft central tissue of a plant stem and the inner layer of a hair.
- The inner or central portion of an organ, especially the spinal cord or brainstem.
- The soft central tissue inside a plant stem.
- The innermost layer of a hair shaft.
"The medulla oblongata contains important centres that regulate breathing and heart rate."
"Damage to the medulla can disrupt automatic functions such as breathing."
"In botany, the medulla is the soft, central part of a stem."
The standard plural is medullae, although medullas is also used in some modern technical contexts.
"The medullae of several hair shafts were examined under the microscope."
The medulla is the brainstem’s central command center for several automatic functions, including breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does medulla come from?
Medulla comes from Latin medulla, meaning “marrow” or “inner substance.” The anatomical sense developed from the word’s older association with the soft internal tissue of bones and with the spinal cord. Its botanical and hair-related uses follow the same idea of an inner core.
Related word forms
How medulla is actually used
In anatomy, the term is chiefly formal and usually refers to the spinal cord or medulla oblongata. In plant anatomy and hair description, it is more specialized.