spinous process

noun

: a bony process of a vertebra that projects posteriorly from the neural arch and the junction of two laminae and provides attachment for muscles concerned especially with flexion, extension, rotation, and stability of the spinal column

Note: The spinous processes can be felt directly under the skin as bony projections along the length of the spinal column with the spinous process of the seventh vertebra in the neck region typically being the most prominent.

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

spinous process

noun

: spine sense 2

specifically : a bony process of a vertebra that projects posteriorly from the neural arch and the junction of two laminae and provides attachment for muscles concerned especially with flexion, extension, rotation, and stability of the spinal column

Note: The spinous processes can be felt directly under the skin as bony projections along the length of the spinal column with the spinous process of the seventh vertebra in the neck region typically being the most prominent.