Dictionary Home » Dictionary Definitions » parasympathetic

parasympathetic

(par′ə sim′pə t̸hetik)

adjective

Physiol. designating or of that part of the autonomic nervous system whose nerves originate in the midbrain, the hindbrain, and the sacral region of the spinal cord and whose functions include the constriction of the pupils of the eyes, the slowing of the heartbeat, and the stimulation of certain digestive glands: these nerves oppose the sympathetic nerves in the regulation of many body processes

Origin: para- + sympathetic

See parasympathetic in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
Of, relating to, or affecting the parasympathetic nervous system: parasympathetic activity; parasympathetic agents.
noun
  1. The parasympathetic nervous system.
  2. Any of the nerves of this system.

Related Forms:

  • parˌa·symˌpa·thetˈi·cal·ly adverb

Learn more about parasympathetic

link/cite print suggestion box