A cord-like structure in anatomy, particularly the notochord in embryos or a nerve fiber in the spinal cord.
From Latin 'chorda' meaning 'string' or 'gut string of a musical instrument,' which came from Greek 'khordē.' The word entered anatomical terminology because these structures resembled strings or cords.
The chorda tympani nerve is named because it literally 'runs across the drum' (tympanum) of your ear—ancient anatomists were remarkably creative with their descriptive names!
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