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

Once growth hormone enters the system, it activates the locus coeruleus, a brainstem region that controls alertness, attention, and cognitive function.

From Science Daily

This triggered a rapid, automatic reaction involving the brainstem and muscles.

From Science Daily

This area, called the lateral parafacial region, is located in the brainstem, the oldest part of the brain responsible for automatic functions like breathing, digestion, and heart rate.

From Science Daily

To investigate hedgehog hearing, researchers at the University of Oxford worked with collaborators in Denmark to measure the auditory brainstem response of 20 rehabilitated hedgehogs from Danish wildlife rescue centers.

From Science Daily

Researchers at the University of Sydney have revealed a brainstem network that manages pain differently depending on where it occurs in the body.

From Science Daily