-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
autonomic nervous system
noun
: a part of the vertebrate nervous system that innervates smooth and cardiac muscle and glandular tissues and governs involuntary actions (such as secretion and peristalsis) and that consists of the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system
Examples of autonomic nervous system in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Chewing and swallowing activate the vagus nerve, which can help calm the autonomic nervous system.
—Nicole Cain, Harvard Business Review, 23 Oct. 2024
After contracting the virus in December 2022, Mir developed dysautonomia (a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system), mast cell activation syndrome (which triggers the excessive release of histamine and leads to allergy-like symptoms), and cognitive impairment.
—Asmae Fahmy, Verywell Health, 6 Sep. 2024
This theory explores the connections between the autonomic nervous system, emotional regulation, and social engagement behaviors.
—Tyler Shepherd, USA TODAY, 5 July 2024
It's linked to CFS's effect on the autonomic nervous system, which controls everything that's automatic in the body.
—Rosie McCall, Health, 8 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for autonomic nervous system
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1898, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of autonomic nervous system was
in 1898
Dictionary Entries Near autonomic nervous system
Cite this Entry
“Autonomic nervous system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/autonomic%20nervous%20system. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
autonomic nervous system
noun
: the part of the vertebrate nervous system that controls involuntary actions (as heart rate and breathing) and that is made up of the sympathetic nervous system and parasympathetic nervous system
Medical Definition
autonomic nervous system
noun
: a part of the vertebrate nervous system that innervates smooth and cardiac muscle and glandular tissues and governs involuntary actions (as secretion, vasoconstriction, or peristalsis) and that consists of the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system
called also vegetative nervous system
compare central nervous system, peripheral nervous systemMore from Merriam-Webster on autonomic nervous system
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about autonomic nervous system
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share