vagus

American  

[vey-guhs] / ˈveɪ gəs /

noun

plural

vagi

1. vagus nerve.

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vagus British  

/ ˈveɪɡəs /

noun

1. the tenth cranial nerve, which supplies the heart, lungs, and viscera

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Etymology

Origin of vagus

1830–40; < Latin: wandering

Example Sentences

GLP-1 receptors are expressed not just in the pancreas and stomach, but throughout the vagus nerve, the brain stem, and the hypothalamus.

From Slate • Mar. 22, 2026

Unlike earlier versions of vagus nerve stimulation, which required surgery to implant a device, this treatment is non-invasive and can be used at home.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2026

The researchers found that a device designed to stimulate the vagus nerve was linked to sustained improvements in depressive symptoms, daily functioning, and overall quality of life.

From Science Daily • Jan. 20, 2026

As we begin to understand the vital role our nervous system plays in our ability to manage to stress, there is a growing body of evidence that the vagus nerve might hold the key.

From BBC • Jan. 2, 2026

“For a few seconds. Suspends its respiration; yours, too, but humans can function without respiring—perspiring?—for a couple of minutes, but the vagus nerve of an andy—”

From "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick