neuroplasticity

American  

[noor-oh-pla-stis-i-tee, nyoor] / ˌnʊər oʊ plæˈstɪs ɪ ti, ˌnyʊər /

noun

1. the capacity of the nervous system to develop new neuronal connections.

   research on neuroplasticity of the brain after injury.

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Etymology

Origin of neuroplasticity

First recorded in 1970–75; neuro- + plasticity

Explanation

Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of our brain and nervous system to adapt, grow, and change in response to stimuli. The brain reorganizes itself, forming new connections between neurons in response to learning, new experiences, and even injury. Neuroplasticity includes two main mechanisms: Functions can be moved to different parts of the brain when one part is damaged, and the physical structure of the brain can change due to learning. Connections and pathways between neurons strengthen or weaken to make our brains more efficient. Neuroplasticity also involves making new neurons in the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. Learning a new language can actually increase the size of the areas of the brain associated with language and speech.

Example Sentences

By boosting neuroplasticity and influencing immune activity, these practices could improve emotional regulation, stress resilience, and mental well-being.

From Science Daily • Apr. 7, 2026

But children and teenagers have what's called neuroplasticity – their brains are better at adapting and bouncing back than adults' brains.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

“Uncertainty drives neuroplasticity, our ability to learn,” Conniff says.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

If ketamine’s antidepressant effect owed to, say, inducing neuroplasticity, the drug should still work even if participants were unconscious.

From Slate • Jan. 30, 2026

The plasticity of the brain, also known as neuroplasticity, is the brain's ability to restructure itself by forming new neural connections.

From Science Daily • May 15, 2024