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 progressive nervous system disorder affects more than a million Americans. — David K. Li, NBC news, 23 Oct. 2026

Unfortunately, the compound is neurotoxic, only furthering damage to our nervous system. — Mike McRae 21, New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026

Excessive aluminum exposure can affect the nervous system, kidneys, and bones, and the European Food Safety Authority (the agency whose assessments inform EU regulations) has established a tolerable weekly intake. — Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 21 Oct. 2026

Changing levels by getting up and sitting down requires your muscles, joints and nervous system to coordinate strength, mobility and balance while controlling your body weight. — Dana Santas, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 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