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

Social media bombards our minds with images that trigger envy and self-doubt, keeping our nervous systems in a chronic state of stress. —Dr. Daniel Amen, Time, 26 Nov. 2025

Milk is also a source of magnesium, which is a nutrient that supports muscle relaxation and nervous system regulation, both of which are important for preparing your body for rest. —Lauren Manaker, SELF, 26 Nov. 2025

These symptoms are caused by a build-up of deposits of transthyretin in areas outside of the heart—a version of ATTR called ATTR-PN (polyneuropathy) that affects the nervous system. —Rachael Zimlich, Verywell Health, 25 Nov. 2025

While glimmers are mini sparks of joy, triggers are associated with setting off a negative spiral via your nervous system. —Danielle Winston, Flow Space, 24 Nov. 2025

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