A chordate animal that possesses a skull (cranium) protecting the brain, representing a major evolutionary advancement in head protection and brain organization. This group includes all vertebrates and some primitive forms like hagfish.
From Latin 'cranium' meaning 'skull,' derived from Greek 'kranion.' The term was coined in the 20th century as taxonomists needed to distinguish between chordates with and without protective skull structures.
Having a cranium was like upgrading from a bicycle helmet to a motorcycle helmet - it allowed brains to become larger and more complex without being vulnerable to damage! Interestingly, hagfish have cartilaginous skulls but no vertebrae, making them craniates but not quite vertebrates.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.