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Definition of Medulla oblongata
1. Noun. Lower or hindmost part of the brain; continuous with spinal cord; ('bulb' is an old term for medulla oblongata). "The medulla oblongata is the most vital part of the brain because it contains centers controlling breathing and heart functioning"
Exact synonyms: Bulb, Medulla
Generic synonyms: Neural Structure
Group relationships: Brain Stem, Brain-stem, Brainstem
Terms within: Respiratory Center
Derivative terms: Bulbar, Medullary
Generic synonyms: Neural Structure
Group relationships: Brain Stem, Brain-stem, Brainstem
Terms within: Respiratory Center
Derivative terms: Bulbar, Medullary
Medical Definition of Medulla oblongata
1. The lowest subdivision of the brainstem, immediately adjacent to the spinal cord. Houses important cardiac and respiratory regulatory centres. (27 Sep 1997)