Spina bifida is a condition of the spine that some people are born with. It often makes them unable to use their legs.
spina bifida in British English
(ˈspaɪnə ˈbɪfɪdə)
noun
a congenital condition in which the meninges of the spinal cord protrude through a gap in the backbone, sometimes causing enlargement of the skull (due to accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid) and paralysis
Word origin
New Latin; see spine, bifid
spina bifida in American English
(ˌspaɪnəˈbɪfɪdə)
a congenital defect or opening in the spinal column through which the spinal membranes or spinal cord may protrude, often resulting in hydrocephalus, paralysis, etc.
Word origin
ModL < L spina (see spine) + bifida, fem. of bifidus, bifid