1. the tough, outermost membrane that envelops the brain and spinal cord
Usage: anatomy; also called dura mater

Examples

• The dura is the strongest of the three membranes surrounding the brain.
• Inflammation of the dura can cause severe headaches and neck stiffness.
• During spinal surgery, the surgeon must be careful not to puncture the dura.
• The dura mater protects the delicate neural tissue beneath it.
• A subdural hematoma occurs when bleeding happens between the dura and the brain.