brainstem

American  

[breyn-stem] / ˈbreɪnˌstɛm /

Or brain stem

noun

1. 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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brainstem British  

/ ˈbreɪnˌstɛm /

noun

1. the stalklike part of the brain consisting of the medulla oblongata, the midbrain, and the pons Varolii

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brainstem Scientific  

/ brān′stĕm′ /

1. 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.

2. See also reticular formation

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Etymology

Origin of brainstem

First recorded in 1875–80; brain + stem ¹

Example Sentences

The locus coeruleus, found in the brainstem, helps regulate this process through long nerve fibers that extend to the olfactory bulb.

From Science Daily • Apr. 11, 2026

The brainstem functions as the main communication pathway between the brain and spinal cord, directing signals that control thought, sensation, and survival responses.

From Science Daily • Nov. 4, 2025

Dr. Crawford noted, "We found that upper parts of the brainstem were more active when relieving facial pain, while lower regions were engaged for arm or leg pain."

From Science Daily • Nov. 4, 2025

This area of the brainstem receives interoceptive input, or signals from the body about its internal state, like hunger, pain and fullness.

From Salon • Feb. 6, 2025

That is why our brainstem is surrounded by the R-complex, then the limbic system and finally the cerebral cortex.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan