medulla

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the medulla oblongata, the lowest part of the brainstem, which helps regulate breathing, heart rate, and other automatic functions

   Damage to the medulla can disrupt breathing and cardiovascular control.

2. 2
   noun

   the inner region of an organ or other biological structure, contrasted with its outer cortex

   The renal medulla contains structures that help the kidney concentrate urine.

Borrowed from Latin medulla ("marrow, pith, innermost part"), probably related to medius ("middle"). Anatomists retained the Latin word for central or inner tissue and for the medulla oblongata at the base of the brain.

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