How to Pronounce "vertebrae"
word
/ˈvɝtəˌbɹeɪ/
VUR-tuh-bray
/vˈɜːtɪbɹˌiː/
vur-TIB-ree
Definition
The small bones stacked on top of each other to form the backbone or spine in humans and animals.
IPA Transcription
American English
/ˈvɝtəˌbɹeɪ/
British English
/vˈɜːtɪbɹˌiː/
Simplified Pronunciation
US
VUR-tuh-bray
UK
vur-TIB-ree
Listen in Context
The human spine is made up of 33 vertebrae.
Injuries to the vertebrae can be very serious.
Snakes also have many vertebrae in their bodies.
Some people are born with extra vertebrae, which can cause back problems.