Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

chordate

noun

/ˈkɔːrdɪt/

Definition

A chordate is an animal belonging to the phylum Chordata, which is characterized by the presence of a notochord, dorsal hollow nerve cord, pharyngeal slits, and post-anal tail at some stage of development.

Examples

Humans are classified as chordates because they have a backbone.
Fish, birds, and reptiles are all part of the chordate group.
During its embryonic development, a chordate exhibits features such as a notochord and nerve cord.

Meaning

Chordates are a diverse group of animals that includes vertebrates (like mammals, birds, and fish) as well as some invertebrates (like tunicates and lancelets).