'Rachis' definitions:

Definition of 'rachis'

(from WordNet)
noun
Axis of a compound leaf or compound inflorescence
noun
The series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord; "the fall broke his back" [syn: spinal column, vertebral column, spine, backbone, back, rachis]

Definition of 'Rachis'

From: GCIDE
  • Rachis \Ra"chis\ (r[=a]"k[i^]s), n.; pl. E. Rachises (r[=a]"k[i^]s*[e^]z), L. Rachides (r[a^]k"[i^]*d[=e]z). [NL., fr. Gr. "ra`chis, -ios.] [Written also rhachis.]
  • 1. (Anat.) The spine; the vertebral column. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Bot. & Zool.) Same as Rhachis. [1913 Webster]