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peripheral nervous system
noun
: the part of the nervous system that is outside the central nervous system and comprises the cranial nerves excepting the optic nerve, the spinal nerves, and the autonomic nervous system
Examples of peripheral nervous system in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
But auras—which fMRI scans have indicated originate as a sort of rolling blackout within the brain—suggest information is getting through from the brain to the pain sensors in the peripheral nervous system, the nerves outside of the central nervous system that extend across the rest of the body.
—Matthew Ponsford, WIRED, 19 Sep. 2024
The condition involves damage to the peripheral nervous system, which sends signals between the central nervous system and other body parts, per the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
—Bailey Richards, Peoplemag, 14 Apr. 2024
These cells can be found in the brain, and in both the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system.
—Cbd Scout, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024
Leprosy primarily affects the skin and peripheral nervous system, causing physical deformity and desensitizing one’s ability to feel pain on affected skin.
—Robert A. Schwartz, Discover Magazine, 18 Mar. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1846, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of peripheral nervous system was
in 1846
Dictionary Entries Near peripheral nervous system
Cite this Entry
“Peripheral nervous system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peripheral%20nervous%20system. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
peripheral nervous system
noun
: the part of the nervous system that is outside the central nervous system and is made up of the autonomic nervous system, the spinal nerves, and the cranial nerves except the optic nerve
Medical Definition
peripheral nervous system
noun
: the part of the nervous system that is outside the central nervous system and comprises the cranial nerves excepting the optic nerve, the spinal nerves, and the autonomic nervous system
More from Merriam-Webster on peripheral nervous system
Britannica English: Translation of peripheral nervous system for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about peripheral nervous system
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