prefrontal cortex

noun

: the gray matter of the anterior part of the frontal lobe that is highly developed in humans and plays a role in the regulation of complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning

Examples of prefrontal cortex in a Sentence

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These ripples are associated with spikes of activity in the prefrontal cortex, and scientists only observe them during periods of sleep or quiet, wakeful rest. — Sean McCabe, Hartford Courant, 18 Oct. 2026 The prefrontal cortex plays an important role in planning, working memory, decision making and emotional regulation. — Shahrzad Jalali, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026 Managing a client’s emotional wants and needs throughout the home-buying or -selling process is critical and best left to someone with a prefrontal cortex. — Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 28 Sep. 2026 Batista-Brito’s lab is now repeating the anatomy part of their work in the prefrontal cortex. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 18 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prefrontal cortex

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prefrontal cortex was in 1892

Rhymes for prefrontal cortex

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Browse Nearby Words

prefrontal
prefrontal cortex
prefrozen
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Cite this Entry

“Prefrontal cortex.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prefrontal%20cortex. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

prefrontal cortex

noun
: the gray matter of the anterior part of the frontal lobe that is highly developed in humans and plays a role in the regulation of complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning
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