central nervous system

noun

: the part of the nervous system which in vertebrates consists of the brain and spinal cord, to which sensory impulses are transmitted and from which motor impulses pass out, and which coordinates the activity of the entire nervous system compare peripheral nervous system

Examples of central nervous system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many recreational and prescription drugs contain stimulants (drugs that increase activity in your central nervous system) and other substances that can trigger symptoms of tachycardia. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 29 Nov. 2024

White matter can be thought of as the communication highway for the central nervous system, transmitting signals to and from different parts of the brain and spinal cord. —New Atlas, 29 Nov. 2024

Because pleasure is an experience that arises in the central nervous system, the drug has little potential for abuse. —Richard A. Friedman, The Atlantic, 29 Nov. 2024

The team also did not find any evidence that suggests damage to the central nervous system during a six-month space mission. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

central nervous system

noun

: the part of the nervous system that in vertebrates consists of the brain and spinal cord

Medical Definition

central nervous system

noun

: the part of the nervous system which in vertebrates consists of the brain and spinal cord, to which sensory impulses are transmitted and from which motor impulses pass out, and which supervises and coordinates the activity of the entire nervous system compare autonomic nervous system, peripheral nervous system