nervous system

noun

: the bodily system that in vertebrates is made up of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs and that receives and interprets stimuli and transmits impulses to the effector organs see autonomic nervous system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system

Examples of nervous system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Our nervous systems remain attentive to signals of acceptance, rejection and threat. — Rabbi Bruce D. Forman, Sun Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 The neurologist outlined the following five strategies for recognizing these patterns, calming the nervous system and developing healthier responses to stress. — Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026 These transducers, combined with spatial audio and immersive visuals, work to support a nervous system reset of sorts. — Jessica Sulima, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Oct. 2026 Tennessee changed its lethal injection protocol in 2024, abandoning its previous three-drug method in favor of the single drug pentobarbital, which slows down a person’s nervous system. — Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 3 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nervous system

Word History

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nervous system was in 1703

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Cite this Entry

“Nervous system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nervous%20system. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

nervous system

noun
: the bodily system that receives stimuli, decides on their importance, and sends nerve impulses to the organs of action and that in vertebrates is made up of brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs

Medical Definition

nervous system

noun
: the bodily system that in vertebrates is made up of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, ganglia, and parts of the receptor organs and that receives and interprets stimuli and transmits impulses to the effector organs see autonomic nervous system, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system

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