umbilical cord

Definition

The flexible structure connecting a foetus with the placenta; it transports nourishment to the foetus and removes waste.

Etymology

From umbilical + cord. Largely displaced native navel-string. First attested in 1753.

Example Sentences

• "Remember the eastern leg of HS2 being lopped back to the East Midlands? To this Yorkshireman, this was a tragedy. It removed the umbilical cord designed to connect and bind together the modern advanced manufacturing corridor of England (West Midlands-East Midlands-the reborn Sheffield-Leeds-Teesside-Tyneside), helping it to be capable of competing internationally through the synergy of skills and skilled people."