nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that in vertebrates is made up of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs and that receives and interprets stimuli and transmits impulses to the effector organs see autonomic nervous system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system

Examples of nervous system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the center's more unique offerings is sound healing, a holistic practice designed to help calm the nervous system and create a sense of full-body relaxation for mothers navigating anxiety and postpartum struggles. —Breana Pitts, CBS News, 11 May 2026

Practices that build awareness, regulate the nervous system and strengthen attention can measurably improve performance and interaction. —Elan Gepner-Dales, Rolling Stone, 11 May 2026

Research shows both warm and cold water immersion can calm the nervous system, ease joint pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation and lower blood pressure. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 9 May 2026

In the wild, marine sponges are delicate, simple living organisms, lacking brains, organs, and nervous systems, despite having risen in pop culture via a certain cartoon character with square pants. —Erik Trinidad, Travel + Leisure, 8 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nervous system

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

Kids Definition

nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that receives stimuli, decides on their importance, and sends nerve impulses to the organs of action and that in vertebrates is made up of brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs

Medical Definition

nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that in vertebrates is made up of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs and that receives and interprets stimuli and transmits impulses to the effector organs see autonomic nervous system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system