brainstem
or brain stem
[breyn-stem]
- the portion of the brain that is continuous with the spinal cord and comprises the medulla oblongata, pons, midbrain, and parts of the hypothalamus, functioning in the control of reflexes and such essential internal mechanisms as respiration and heartbeat.
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Origin of brainstem
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for brainstem
Contemporary Examples
Brain death implies the complete and permanent absence of neurological function in the cortex and the brainstem.
Families and Physicians Debate the True Meaning of Brain DeathDr. Anand Veeravagu, MD, Richard Joseph
January 14, 2014
brainstem
- the stalklike part of the brain consisting of the medulla oblongata, the midbrain, and the pons Varolii
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Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
brainstem
[brān′stĕm′]
- The part of the vertebrate brain located at the base of the brain and made up of the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain. The brainstem controls and regulates vital body functions, including respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure. See also reticular formation.
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The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
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