parasympathetic

[ par-uh-sim-puh-thet-ik ]

adjective

, Anatomy, Physiology,

1. pertaining to that part of the autonomic nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia that arise from the cranial and sacral regions and function in opposition to the sympathetic system, as in inhibiting heartbeat or contracting the pupil of the eye.

parasympathetic

/ ˌpærəˌsɪmpəˈθɛtɪk /

adjective

1. anatomy physiol of or relating to the division of the autonomic nervous system that acts in opposition to the sympathetic system by slowing the heartbeat, constricting the bronchi of the lungs, stimulating the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, etc Compare sympathetic

Word History and Origins

Origin of parasympathetic¹

First recorded in 1900–05; para- ¹ + sympathetic

Example Sentences

Recently, researchers investigated the responses to the presence of friends and acquaintances at different relative positions in IPS, measuring the changes in discomfort, heart rate, and parasympathetic activity.

From Science Daily

But for many, the sympathetic nervous system is out of balance with the parasympathetic nervous system, which, along with the vagus nerve, works to calm the body.

From Salon

The pupil's constriction is an indicator of parasympathetic nervous system function.

From Science Daily

It’s a “cuddle puddle,” as Darragh calls the evening activity, adding that silliness and laughter activates the parasympathetic nervous system and relieves stress.

From Los Angeles Times

"The average heartbeat slows down, and the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays an important role in controlling the internal organs, increases."

From Science Daily