central nervous system

noun

1. the part of the nervous system comprising the brain and spinal cord.

central nervous system

noun

1. CNS. the mass of nerve tissue that controls and coordinates the activities of an animal. In vertebrates it consists of the brain and spinal cord Compare autonomic nervous system

central nervous system

1. The part of the nervous system in vertebrate animals that consists of the brain and spinal cord.

2. Compare peripheral nervous system

central nervous system

1. The brain and spinal cord. (See nervous system).

Word History and Origins

Origin of central nervous system¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Normal human consciousness is tied to inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system called gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA.

From Los Angeles Times

The couple were intoxicated from a “central nervous system stimulant,” authorities said.

From Los Angeles Times

According to a statement published on Saturday by the hospital where Uribe was being treated, the senator had suffered a bleed to his central nervous system and was due to undergo surgery.

From BBC

She died in Cincinnati after battling glioma of the central nervous system, according to a notice posted on her CaringBridge page.

From Los Angeles Times

Even in small doses, it can cause vision problems, permanent damage to the central nervous system and - in extreme cases - death, it added.

From BBC