Foramen

/fəˈreɪ.mən/ noun

Definition

A small hole or opening, especially in a bone or other structure, allowing vessels or nerves to pass through.

Etymology

From Latin foramen meaning hole, from forare meaning to bore or pierce. Used extensively in anatomy.

Kelly Says

The foramen magnum (literally 'big hole') at the base of your skull is where your spinal cord connects to your brain—anatomists named it in Latin centuries ago, and the term stuck.

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