nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that in vertebrates is made up of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs and that receives and interprets stimuli and transmits impulses to the effector organs see autonomic nervous system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system

Examples of nervous system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

To further calm your nervous system, lie down and put your legs up against a wall. —Melanie Mannarino, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Dec. 2024

In the short term, once whatever your body perceives as a threat (e.g., giving a performance) goes away, your nervous system will regulate itself. —Michael MacIntyre, Verywell Health, 4 Dec. 2024

These peptides interact with the nervous system, telling facial muscles to relax to soften the appearance of wrinkles. —Hannah Coates, Vogue, 3 Dec. 2024

Fortunately, we’re equipped with four patterns in the nervous system that enable us to do just that. —Ginny Whitelaw, Forbes, 1 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that receives stimuli, decides on their importance, and sends nerve impulses to the organs of action and that in vertebrates is made up of brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs

Medical Definition

nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that in vertebrates is made up of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs and that receives and interprets stimuli and transmits impulses to the effector organs see autonomic nervous system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system