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

What used to be sold as a puffiness fix is now marketed as nervous system therapy, with the vagus nerve name-checked in product copy, TikTok tutorials and dermatology explainers. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026

Facial massages may influence the nervous system through sensory pathways in the face, including the trigeminal nerve, which connects to brainstem regions involved in autonomic regulation. — Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 1 Oct. 2026

Music can slow cortisol, sync your nervous system and prime you mentally for high stakes. — Roy Ward, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026

The neuroscientist’s guide to improving brain function and rewiring your nervous system to learn new skills and behaviors. — Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 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