1. (a.) Having a backbone, or vertebral column, containing the spinal marrow, as man, quadrupeds, birds, amphibia, and fishes.

2. (a.) Contracted at intervals, so as to resemble the spine in animals.

3. (a.) Having movable joints resembling vertebrae; -- said of the arms ophiurans.

4. (a.) of or pertaining to the Vertebrata; -- used only in the form vertebrate.