cerebral cortex

[ suh-ree-bruhl kawr-teks, ser-uh- ]

noun

1. the furrowed outer layer of gray matter in the cerebrum of the brain, associated with higher brain functions such as voluntary movement, learning, memory, coordination of sensory information, and the expression of individuality. prefrontal cortex ( def ).

cerebral cortex

1. The layer of gray matter in vertebrates that covers the cerebral hemispheres and is composed of folds of neurons and axons. The cerebral cortex is responsible for higher functions of the nervous system, including voluntary muscle activity and learning, language, and memory.

cerebral cortex

1. The surface layer of gray tissue of the cerebrum , frequently called the gray matter. The large size of the cerebral cortex in humans distinguishes them from other animals. Specific parts of the cortex control specific functions, including sensation, voluntary muscle movement, thought, reasoning, and memory.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cerebral cortex¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Results show that DRN serotonin stimulation causes activation of the cerebral cortex and the basal ganglia, brain areas involved in many cognitive functions.

From Science Daily

This technical advance allowed them to identify previously unseen pathways connecting the brainstem, thalamus, hypothalamus, basal forebrain, and cerebral cortex.

From Science Daily

The forebrain, or cerebral cortex, is the largest part of the brain, important for a wide range of function, ranging from cognitive thought, vision, attention and memory.

From Science Daily

They penetrate the cerebral cortex readily but have more difficulty reaching deeper parts of the brain, such as the striatum, which are also damaged by prion disease.

From Science Magazine

A potential solution for these patients is to stimulate the cerebral cortex.

From Science Daily