pyramidal tract

American  

noun

Anatomy.

1. any of four tracts of descending motor fibers that extend in pairs down each side of the spinal column and function in voluntary movement.

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Etymology

Origin of pyramidal tract

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

The pyramidal tract conveys impulses that inhibit muscle tonus, while the rubro-spinal tract is the path by which excitatory impulses travel.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander

The remaining fibres pass down as the direct pyramidal tract, and decussate in the cord near their termination.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander

The motor area of the brain has no direct connection with any muscle, but acts through the pyramidal tract on the lower centers, which in turn act on the muscles.

From Psychology A Study Of Mental Life by Woodworth, Robert S.

Injury to the motor area or to the pyramidal tract does not destroy reflex movement, but cuts off all voluntary movement and cerebral control.

From Psychology A Study Of Mental Life by Woodworth, Robert S.

The pyramidal tract is the more important clinically.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander