alpha rhythm

noun

1. a pattern of slow brain waves alpha waves in normal persons at rest with closed eyes, thought by some to be associated with an alert but daydreaming mind.

alpha rhythm

noun

1. physiol the normal bursts of electrical activity from the cerebral cortex of a drowsy or inactive person, occurring at a frequency of 8 to 12 hertz and detectable with an electroencephalograph See also brain wave

Word History and Origins

Origin of alpha rhythm¹

First recorded in 1935–40; earlier alpha waves, translation of German Alphawellen, term used by their discoverer, German physician Hans Berger (1873–1941)

Example Sentences

The alpha rhythm is a brain wave with a frequency around 10 hertz and is typically associated with attentional processes.

From Nautilus