What is the term for the covering around the brain and the spinal cord?

The term that accurately describes the covering around the brain and the spinal cord is "meninges." The meninges consist of three layers: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. These layers serve to protect the central nervous system by providing a protective barrier, contributing to the structural integrity, and containing cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions the brain and spinal cord.

The term "meninx" refers to a singular form of the word "meninges," but it is not commonly used in the context of referring to the layered membranes as a whole. "Cortex" specifically refers to the outer layer of an organ, such as the cerebral cortex in the brain, and does not apply to the coverings of the brain and spinal cord. "Neuroglia" refers to the supporting cells within the nervous system, which do not form a protective covering like the meninges do. Thus, the choice of "meninges" is the most accurate and comprehensive term for the protective coverings surrounding the brain and spinal cord.