Definition

Noun: - The localization of cognitive or neural functions to one hemisphere of the brain: Lateralisation refers to the process by which certain functions, such as language or spatial reasoning, become predominantly managed by either the left or the right side of the brain.

Usage and Examples

• General Usage: The term is used in neuroscience and psychology to describe the asymmetric distribution of brain functions.
  • The lateralisation of language to the left hemisphere is common in most right-handed individuals.
  • Researchers study the lateralisation of emotion processing in the brain.

Advanced Usage

• "Hemispheric lateralisation": A more specific term emphasizing the division of labor between the brain's two hemispheres.
  • The course focused on hemispheric lateralisation and its impact on cognitive development.

Variants and Related Words

• Lateralization (noun): The preferred spelling in American English.
  • The lateralization of function is a key concept in neuropsychology.
• Lateralise (verb, chiefly British English): To cause to become localized to one side.
  • Certain experiences may lateralise brain function early in life.

Synonyms

• Hemispheric specialization
• Functional asymmetry
• Brain lateralization

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "Cerebral dominance": Often used interchangeably, though it can specifically refer to the hemisphere controlling language.
  • The theory of cerebral dominance is closely linked to studies on lateralisation.

Noun

1. localization of function on either the right or left sides of the brain