tectum

noun

tec·​tum ˈtek-təm 

plural tecta ˈtek-tə 

: a bodily structure resembling or serving as a roof

especially : the dorsal part of the midbrain

tectal

ˈtek-tᵊl 

adjective

Examples of tectum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For a looming stimulus, a nucleus of nerve cells in the midbrain called the optic tectum has served as the prime threat detector since the early days of vertebrate evolution. —Tom Siegfried, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Jan. 2023

Cells in the retina detecting a rapidly expanding object send signals to the optic tectum or superior colliculus, alerting the brain to an imminent collision. —Tom Siegfried, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Jan. 2023

In turn, the tectum/colliculus signals nerve cells to activate muscles. —Tom Siegfried, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Jan. 2023

And in the tectum, a brain region that processes images from the optic nerve, the neurons of salamanders were often strewn chaotically about—a trait seen in embryonic or larval brains—whereas in frogs, the neurons were nicely layered. —Douglas Fox, Scientific American, 1 Feb. 2022

The researchers also recorded activity from the ocular tectum, a brain area involved in basic visual processing in owls and many other vertebrates. —Joanna Klein, New York Times, 3 July 2018

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, roof, dwelling, from neuter of tectus, past participle of tegere to cover — more at thatch

First Known Use

circa 1905, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

tectum

noun

tec·​tum ˈtek-təm 

plural tecta -tə 

1

: a bodily structure resembling or serving as a roof

2

: the dorsal part of the midbrain including the corpora quadrigemina

called also tectum mesencephali