vagal

adjective

va·​gal ˈvā-gəl How to pronounce vagal (audio)
: of, relating to, mediated by, or being the vagus nerve
vagally adverb

Examples of vagal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Studies have shown that higher vagal activation predicts better social connections, higher trust, and increased subjective well-being. Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 27 July 2025 Talk with your healthcare provider before practicing vagal maneuvers on your own. Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 18 July 2025 For example, a large cluster of vagal neurons clings like a vine to the carotid artery in your neck. R Douglas Fields, WIRED, 29 Sep. 2024 The way your body does that is to increase vagal nerve activity, which, in turn, slows down your heart rate. Trisha Pasricha, Washington Post, 29 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for vagal

Word History

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vagal was in 1854

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Cite this Entry

“Vagal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vagal. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

vagal

adjective
va·​gal ˈvā-gəl How to pronounce vagal (audio)
: of, relating to, mediated by, or being the vagus nerve
vagal stimulation
vagally adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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