parasympathetic

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun originates in the brain stem and lower part of the spinal cord; opposes physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system: stimulates digestive secretions; slows the heart; constricts the pupils; dilates blood vessels
  2. adjective of or relating to the parasympathetic nervous system

Etymology

From para- (“beside, adjacent to”) + sympathetic, because some of these nerves run alongside sympathetic nerves.

Synonyms

parasympathetic nervous system

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