Definition

Noun: 1. The flexible, tube-like structure connecting a developing fetus to the placenta in the womb. It contains blood vessels (two arteries and one vein) that transport oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus and remove waste products from the fetus.

Usage

• The word "umbilical cord" is a compound noun. It is typically used in medical, biological, and general contexts related to pregnancy and birth.
• It is often discussed in terms of its function, its cutting after birth, and related medical procedures.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor clamped and cut the umbilical cord immediately after the baby was born.
  • Nutrients pass from the mother to the fetus through the umbilical cord.
  • An ultrasound can show the position of the umbilical cord.

Advanced Usage

• "Umbilical" as an adjective: Pertaining to the navel or to the umbilical cord. This usage is often found in technical or medical terminology.
  • The surgeon made an umbilical incision.
• Metaphorical Use: Sometimes used metaphorically to describe a vital, life-sustaining connection or dependency.
  • The satellite remained connected to the space station by an umbilical cord of cables.

Variants and Related Words

• Cord (noun): A length of flexible material. In this compound, it specifies the type of cord.
• Umbilicus (noun): The medical term for the navel or belly button, which is the scar left after the umbilical cord is severed.
• Navel (noun): The common term for the umbilicus.

Synonyms

• Birth cord: A less common synonym.
• Funis (or Funiculus umbilicalis): The formal Latin-based medical term.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To cut the umbilical cord": Literally, to sever the physical cord after birth. Figuratively, it means to end a state of dependency, especially between a child and parent.
  • It was time for him to leave home and cut the umbilical cord.
• "Umbilical connection": A phrase describing a link that is as essential as the umbilical cord.
  • The rover maintained an umbilical connection to the lander for power.

Noun

1. membranous duct connecting the fetus with the placenta