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
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Researchers have been looking into ways to reduce the stubborn inflammation HIV causes in the central nervous system. Smita S. Iyer, The Conversation, 8 June 2026 Permethrin kills ticks and other pests within minutes by targeting their central nervous system. Dan Simms, USA Today, 4 June 2026 Unfortunately, going cold turkey off a central nervous system depressant like GHB has some pretty unfortunate side-effects. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 3 June 2026 High rates of nonfatal attempts were recorded most in veterans under the age of 45, females, and veterans with central nervous system cancer or thyroid cancer. Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for central nervous system

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of central nervous system was in 1826

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Cite this Entry

“Central nervous system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/central%20nervous%20system. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

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

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