olfactory brain
Noun: - The part of the brain primarily involved in the sense of smell: The olfactory brain refers to a collection of brain structures, notably including the rhinencephalon, that are central to processing olfactory (smell) information. In humans, these structures are also involved in aspects of emotion and behavior.
The term "olfactory brain" is used in anatomical, neurological, and zoological contexts to describe the brain regions dedicated to smell. - The study focused on the evolution of the olfactory brain in vertebrates. - Damage to the olfactory brain can impair the sense of smell.
- In comparative neuroanatomy, the olfactory brain is more prominent and directly governs smell in many non-human animals.
- In human neuropsychology, while still involved in olfaction, components of the olfactory brain (like the limbic system) are understood to mediate complex emotional behavior.
- The psychiatrist explained how the olfactory brain, particularly the amygdala, is linked to emotional memory.
- Rhinencephalon (n): A more technical, synonymous term for the olfactory brain.
- Limbic system (n): A broader set of brain structures including parts of the olfactory brain, heavily associated with emotion, behavior, and long-term memory.
- Smell brain
- Rhinencephalon
The meaning of "olfactory brain" has a specific comparative aspect: 1. Primary Function in Animals: In many animals, it is the center that governs the sense of smell. 2. Extended Function in Humans: In humans, these same anatomical regions have evolved additional functions and are implicated in mediating complex emotional behavior.
- a center in the cerebral hemispheres that governs the sense of smell in lower animals; in humans it seems to mediate complex emotional behavior