vertebrated

Vertebrated is an adjective used to describe something possessing a backbone or vertebral column. This term is primarily applied in zoology to refer to animals that belong to the subphylum Vertebrata. Vertebrates are characterized by a segmented spinal column, which is a series of bones or cartilage called vertebrae that encase and protect the spinal cord. This internal skeletal structure provides support, facilitates movement, and allows for greater complexity in body organization compared to invertebrates.

The vertebrate column is a defining feature of a vast and diverse group of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. While the exact number and structure of vertebrae vary significantly among different vertebrate species, the presence of this fundamental characteristic unites them. In a broader, less scientific context, "vertebrated" can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe something that has a clear structure, organization, or backbone of principles. However, its primary and most accurate usage pertains to the biological classification of animals with a vertebral column.