limbic system

noun

: a group of subcortical structures (such as the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, and the amygdala) of the brain that are concerned especially with emotion and motivation

Examples of limbic system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Constantly forcing yourself to feel thankful can overwhelm your brain, in particular the limbic system and prefrontal cortex that are responsible for emotional processing and decision-making, explains Dr. Mary Poffenroth, biopsychologist and author of Brave New You. —Noma Nazish, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2024

Maybe my limbic system was relaying intense sympathy for my grandfather’s plight, nothing more. —Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 14 July 2025

Scientists suspect that disruptions in nerve cell signaling between migraine pain pathways in the brain stem and the limbic system can trigger mood symptoms during an attack. —Brigid Dwyer, Verywell Health, 19 May 2025

Likewise, depression or anxiety stemming from limbic system dysfunction could alter migraine pain pathways within the brain stem. —Brigid Dwyer, Verywell Health, 19 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for limbic system

• cryptosystem
• ecosystem
• intersystem
• multisystem
• photosystem
• subsystem

Medical Definition

limbic system

noun

: a group of subcortical structures (as the hypothalamus, the hippocampus, and the amygdala) of the brain that are concerned especially with emotion and motivation