prefrontal cortex

noun

: the gray matter of the anterior part of the frontal lobe that is highly developed in humans and plays a role in the regulation of complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning

Examples of prefrontal cortex in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Electrodes closer to the forehead stimulate a brain region called the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, associated with mood regulation (for example, calming anxiety). — IEEE Spectrum, 5 Nov. 2026

In 2022, for example, a team of researchers in Paris reported that sustained mental effort led to the accumulation of glutamate in the lateral prefrontal cortex, a brain region responsible for cognitive control. — Cody Cottier, Scientific American, 4 Nov. 2026

These ripples are associated with spikes of activity in the prefrontal cortex, and scientists only observe them during periods of sleep or quiet, wakeful rest. — Sean McCabe, Hartford Courant, 18 Oct. 2026

The prefrontal cortex plays an important role in planning, working memory, decision making and emotional regulation. — Shahrzad Jalali, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for prefrontal cortex

• neocortex
• vortex

Medical Definition

prefrontal cortex

noun

: the gray matter of the anterior part of the frontal lobe that is highly developed in humans and plays a role in the regulation of complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning