association area

noun

: an area of the cerebral cortex that functions in linking and coordinating the sensory and motor areas

Examples of association area in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some of the long-range neural connections that link these association areas to one another and to the cerebellum (the latter plays a role in voluntary movement and learning new skills) are more numerous in human brains compared with other primates. Chet C. Sherwood, Scientific American, 1 Sep. 2018 Village association Area Representative Bryan Leavitt said being centered in a great area for community fun is a major attraction point for the village. Jeff Forward, Houston Chronicle, 6 May 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of association area was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near association area

Cite this Entry

“Association area.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/association%20area. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

association area

noun
variants or association cortex
: an area of the cerebral cortex that functions in linking and coordinating the sensory and motor areas
Higher cognitive functions in primates, including humans, depend on the appropriate number, organization, and connectivity of neurons in the association areas of the neocortex.David R. Kornack et al., Science
This [Wernicke's] area is conveniently surrounded by the auditory cortex as well as by areas collectively known as association cortex, areas that integrate auditory, visual, and somatic sensation into complex perceptions.Eric R. Kandel et al., Principles of Neural Science, 4th edition

More from Merriam-Webster on association area

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!