Definition

1. Noun:
   • The portion of the vertebrate nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord: The central nervous system is the primary command center of the body, responsible for processing information and coordinating activity. It is protected by bone (the skull and vertebrae) and membranes called meninges.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The central nervous system receives sensory input from the entire body.
  • Damage to the central nervous system can have severe and lasting effects.
  • The brain and spinal cord are the two main components of the central nervous system.

Advanced Usage

• "Central nervous system involvement": A medical term indicating that a disease or condition is affecting the brain or spinal cord.

  • The virus can lead to central nervous system involvement, causing encephalitis.

• "Central nervous system depressant": A substance, such as alcohol or certain drugs, that slows down the activity of the brain and spinal cord.

  • Barbiturates are powerful central nervous system depressants.

Variants and Related Words

• CNS: A common abbreviation for "central nervous system."

  • The MRI scan was used to examine the patient's CNS.

• Peripheral nervous system (PNS): The part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord, which connects the CNS to limbs and organs.

  • Nerves in your hand are part of the peripheral nervous system, which relays signals to the central nervous system.

Synonyms

• Neuraxis: A technical term sometimes used to refer to the brain and spinal cord collectively.

Related Phrases

• Central nervous system disorder: A broad category for diseases affecting the brain or spinal cord.

  • Multiple sclerosis is a chronic central nervous system disorder.

• Central nervous system stimulant: A substance that increases activity in the brain and spinal cord.

  • Caffeine is a mild central nervous system stimulant.

Noun

1. the portion of the vertebrate nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord