central nervous system

American  

noun

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

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central nervous system British  

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

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central nervous system Scientific  

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

2. Compare peripheral nervous system

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central nervous system Cultural  

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

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Etymology

Origin of central nervous system

First recorded in 1890–95

Compare meaning

How does central-nervous-system compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• central nervous system vs. peripheral nervous system

Example Sentences

However, while the treatment he receives is effective at preventing another relapse, he still faces problems from the damage that has already been done to his central nervous system.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

This strategy could eventually lead to new treatments for brain tumors and other disorders affecting the central nervous system.

From Science Daily • Mar. 11, 2026

Such genetic damage may increase the likelihood of cancers affecting the central nervous system, digestive tract, and blood-forming tissues.

From Science Daily • Feb. 17, 2026

Melinda Hughes would like to get to know your central nervous system — and you too.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

By the time we reach her room, the silence feels rabid, like any second it'll attack and fry my central nervous system and I won’t be able to speak.

From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone