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reticular formation

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noun
a network of neurons in the brainstem involved in consciousness, regulation of breathing, the transmission of sensory stimuli to higher brain centers, and the constantly shifting muscular activity that supports the body against gravity.
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Origin of reticular formation

First recorded in 1885–90

Words nearby reticular formation

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Scientific definitions for reticular formation

reticular formation
[ rĭ-tĭk′yə-lər ]

A complex network of neurons and axons that is located throughout the brainstem. The reticular formation regulates consciousness, sleep, and wakefulness.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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