Babinski reflex

noun

Ba·​bin·​ski reflex bə-ˈbin(t)-skē- How to pronounce Babinski reflex (audio)
variants or Babinski sign or less commonly Babinski's reflex or Babinski's sign
: a reflex movement in which when the sole is tickled the big toe turns upward instead of downward and which is normal in infancy but indicates damage to the central nervous system (as in the pyramidal tracts) later in life

Word History

Etymology

J. F. F. Babinski †1932 French neurologist

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Babinski reflex was in 1900

Dictionary Entries Near Babinski reflex

Cite this Entry

“Babinski reflex.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Babinski%20reflex. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

Babinski reflex

noun
Ba·​bin·​ski reflex bə-ˌbin-skē- How to pronounce Babinski reflex (audio)
variants or Babinski sign or Babinski's reflex or Babinski's sign also Babinski
: a reflex movement in which when the sole is tickled the big toe turns upward instead of downward and which is normal in infancy but indicates damage to the central nervous system (as in the pyramidal tracts) when occurring later in life compare plantar reflex
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