parasympathetic nervous system

American  

noun

1. Anatomy. the part of the autonomic nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia that arise from the cranial and sacral regions, functioning in opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, and producing effects such as slowing the heart rate and contraction of the pupils.

---

parasympathetic nervous system Scientific  

/ păr′ə-sĭm′pə-thĕt′ĭk /

1. The part of the autonomic nervous system that tends to act in opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, as by slowing down the heartbeat and dilating the blood vessels. It regulates the function of many glands, such as those that produce tears and saliva, and stimulates motility and secretions of the digestive system.

2. Compare sympathetic nervous system

---

Example Sentences

By engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, the team observed that inflammation could be eased by inhibiting SUMOylation, a cellular process that shapes immune response.

From Science Daily • Nov. 20, 2024

The vagus nerve is the key player in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the “rest and digest” system that calms the body during times of low stress.

From Scientific American • Jul. 4, 2023

It requires just a bit of time, a mirror and some positive affirmations — and a 2017 study found it to be an impactful self-compassion exercise that soothes the parasympathetic nervous system.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2023

Greater variability suggests you're more relaxed and your parasympathetic nervous system is in control.

From Salon • Dec. 31, 2022

While the sympathetic nervous system is activated in stressful situations, the parasympathetic nervous system allows an animal to “rest and digest.”

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013