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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Research into how space radiation can affect the central nervous system, including differences associated with males and females, shows why the people studied and the questions asked matter when designing future missions. Wanjiku Chebet Kanjumba, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 July 2026 Individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking medications that affect the central nervous system should also speak with a healthcare professional before consuming concentrated poppy seed products. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 19 July 2026 The short chain fatty acids communicate with the central nervous system and can influence mood. Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026 The drug has completed four Phase 1 trials in adults with brain, breast, and skin cancers and received FDA Fast Track designation for pediatric central nervous system tumors. Steve Midway, STAT, 16 July 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 1 Aug. 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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