alpha rhythm

noun

1. a pattern of slow brain waves alpha waves in normal persons at rest with closed eyes, thought by some to be associated with an alert but daydreaming mind.

alpha rhythm

noun

1. physiol the normal bursts of electrical activity from the cerebral cortex of a drowsy or inactive person, occurring at a frequency of 8 to 12 hertz and detectable with an electroencephalograph See also brain wave

Word History and Origins

Origin of alpha rhythm¹

First recorded in 1935–40; earlier alpha waves, translation of German Alphawellen, term used by their discoverer, German physician Hans Berger (1873–1941)

Example Sentences

Researchers observed that depending on the phase at which the sound was played, the alpha rhythm became faster or slower.

From Science Daily

The first brain wave that was discovered was the alpha rhythm, which is the rhythm prominent in the visual cortex when you close your eyes, McCormick said.

From Seattle Times