central nervous system

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


Origin:
1890–95

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
Cite This Source Link To central nervous system
Collins
World English Dictionary
central nervous system
 
n
Compare autonomic nervous system 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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
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00:10
Central nervous system is always a great word to know.
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a stew of meat, vegetables, potatoes, etc.
American Heritage
Medical Dictionary

central nervous system n.
Abbr. CNS
The portion of the vertebrate nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Also called cerebrospinal axis.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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American Heritage
Science Dictionary
central nervous system  
The part of the nervous system in vertebrate animals that consists of the brain and spinal cord. Compare peripheral nervous system.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
Copyright © 2002. Published by Houghton Mifflin. All rights reserved.
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American Heritage
Cultural Dictionary

central nervous system definition


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

The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition
Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Example sentences
Imbalances can result in several major dysfunctions of the central nervous
  system linked to depression.
Abnormal posturing that occurs with little stimulation is a sign of serious
  central nervous system damage.
It excites the central nervous system and, in the right amounts, releases
  adrenaline and can enhance heart function.
It is of particular interest to notice their adaptation to the growth and
  changes in the form of the central nervous system.
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