phrenic
Americanadjective
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Anatomy. of or relating to the diaphragm.
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Physiology. relating to the mind or mental activity.
adjective
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of or relating to the diaphragm
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( as noun )
the phrenic
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obsolete of or relating to the mind
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of phrenic
From the New Latin word phrenicus, dating back to 1695–1705. See phren-, -ic
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Hiccups are caused by the involuntary spasming of the diaphragm, typically as a result of an irritated phrenic nerve.
From BBC ● Dec. 28, 2025
After the operation, doctors will assess whether Bolsonaro can undergo an additional procedure: blockage of the phrenic nerve, which controls the diaphragm, for recurrent hiccups, Birolini said.
From Barron's ● Dec. 25, 2025
We suspect that gargling and dry sugar both stimulate the phrenic nerve which controls the diaphragm.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 13, 2023
The phrenic nerve pacer Sadie's parents have fundraised for works a little like a cardiac pace maker as it will tell the diaphragm when to move and breathe, her father Andrew said.
From BBC ● Apr. 13, 2023
The phrenic arteries, two in number, pass to supply the under surface of the diaphragm.
From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 2, Slice 6 "Armour Plates" to "Arundel, Earls of" by Various
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
