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

Under acute stress, Arnsten's work shows, high levels of norepinephrine and dopamine weaken the prefrontal cortex while strengthening the more primitive, reflexive responses governed by the amygdala. — Kwame Christian Esq, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026

Your brain activity shifts away from the regions that drive emotional reactivity and toward the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for logical thinking. — Amy Morin, CNBC, 21 June 2026

But the prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until a person reaches their mid-to-late 20s, making young people more susceptible to impulsive behavior while gambling. — Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 18 June 2026

The prefrontal cortex is the region of the brain responsible for judgment, decision-making and impulse control. — Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, The Conversation, 11 June 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