brainstem

or brain stem

[ breyn-stem ]

noun

1. the portion of the brain that is continuous with the spinal cord and comprises the medulla oblongata, pons, midbrain, and parts of the hypothalamus, functioning in the control of reflexes and such essential internal mechanisms as respiration and heartbeat.

brainstem

/ ˈbreɪnˌstɛm /

noun

1. the stalklike part of the brain consisting of the medulla oblongata, the midbrain, and the pons Varolii

brainstem

/ brān′stĕm′ /

1. The part of the vertebrate brain located at the base of the brain and made up of the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain. The brainstem controls and regulates vital body functions, including respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure.
2. See also reticular formation

Word History and Origins

Origin of brainstem¹

First recorded in 1875–80; brain + stem ¹

Example Sentences

Using mice, the researchers pinpointed a group of brain cells in the frontal cortex that connects to the brainstem, where vital actions like breathing are controlled.

From Science Daily

Axial symptoms, which have not received extensive study in relation to DBS, improved with stimulation of tracts connected to the supplementary motor cortex and brainstem.

From Science Daily

But everything we see is calculated to tickle the recesses of our brainstems.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Science Daily

The scientists found that giving this molecule to mice activated the caudal nucleus of the solitary tract, or cNST, which is tucked inside the brainstem.

From Science Daily