nervous system

[ nur-vuhs sis-tuhm ]

noun

, Anatomy, Zoology.

1. the system of nerves and nerve centers in an animal or human, including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and ganglia.
2. a particular part of this system.

nervous system

noun

1. the sensory and control apparatus of all multicellular animals above the level of sponges, consisting of a network of nerve cells See neurone See also central nervous system

nervous system

/ nûr′vəs /

1. The system of neurons and tissues that regulates the actions and responses of vertebrates and many invertebrates. The nervous system of vertebrates is a complex information-processing system that consists mainly of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral and autonomic nerves. It receives chemical information from hormones in the circulating blood and can also regulate secretions of the endocrine system by the action of neurohormones. The nervous systems of invertebrates vary from a simple network of nerves to a complex nerve network under the control of a primitive brain.
2. See also autonomic nervous system

nervous system

1. The system in the body that controls internal functions of the body and receives, interprets, and responds to stimuli . The nervous system is made up of the brain , the spinal cord , the nerves , and the sense organs , such as the eye and ear .

Word History and Origins

Origin of nervous system¹

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

Up until recently, habituation -- a simple form of learning -- was deemed the exclusive domain of complex organisms with brains and nervous systems, such as worms, insects, birds, and mammals.

From Science Daily

When pain signals are passed along the nervous system, proteins called calcium channels play a key role.

From Science Daily

The buildup can lead to a variety of health issues, including increased risks of cancer, hormone disruption, fertility effects and damage to the brain and nervous system.

From Los Angeles Times

"They're marked by progressive loss of motor functions -- from sitting, standing, and swallowing to even breathing -- as neurons in the nervous system die. Watching someone go through this is heartbreaking."

From Science Daily

“Deep breathing can reset the nervous system,” Harris said.

From Los Angeles Times