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

The heart possesses its own sophisticated nervous system, often referred to as the brain in the heart. — Dr. Shiny Burcu Unsal, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Do not confuse availability with connection, especially when your nervous system already feels crowded. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2026

The Marine Rain Massage is an immersive treatment that releases muscle tension, calms the nervous system, and activates circulation. — Rana Good, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Aug. 2026

Aphids, whiteflies, beetles and fleas Woolsey explains that neonicotinoids work by targeting receptors found mostly in insect nervous systems. — Nicole Hernandez, USA Today, 1 Aug. 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