cerebrospinal fluid

American  

noun

Physiology.

1. the fluid in the ventricles of the brain, between the arachnoid and pia mater, and surrounding the spinal cord.

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cerebrospinal fluid British  

noun

1.  CSF.  the clear colourless fluid in the spaces inside and around the spinal cord and brain

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cerebrospinal fluid Scientific  

/ sĕr′ə-brō-spī′nəl,sə-rē′brō- /

1. The clear fluid that fills the cavities of the brain and covers the surfaces of the brain and spinal cord. It lubricates the tissues and cushions them from shock and injury.

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Etymology

Origin of cerebrospinal fluid

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

To administer genetic medicines against the tau protein tangles that are Alzheimer’s’ other main pathology, doctors must inject them directly into the cerebrospinal fluid.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

However, the results suggest that everyday movement may help circulate cerebrospinal fluid through the brain, aiding in the removal of waste and possibly lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases linked to waste buildup.

From Science Daily • May 1, 2026

During those misses, the scientists observed a surge of cerebrospinal fluid through and out of the brain.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

She's holding a container of ice-cold, artificial cerebrospinal fluid, which mimics the liquid that bathes the brain and spinal cord.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2025

The latter contains, besides, a large venous sinus, fatty matter, the membranes of the cord, and the cerebrospinal fluid.

From Special Report on Diseases of the Horse by Michener, Charles B.