brain wave

brain wave

n.

1. A rhythmic fluctuation of electric potential between parts of the brain, as seen on an electroencephalogram.

2. Informal A sudden inspiration.

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brain wave

n

(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Physiology) any of the fluctuations of electrical potential in the brain as represented on an electroencephalogram. They vary in frequency from 1 to 30 hertz See also alpha rhythm, beta rhythm, delta rhythm

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

brain wave - (neurophysiology) rapid fluctuations of voltage between parts of the cerebral cortex that are detectable with an electroencephalograph brainwave, cortical potential neurophysiology - the branch of neuroscience that studies the physiology of the nervous system alpha rhythm, alpha wave - the normal brainwave in the electroencephalogram of a person who is awake but relaxed; occurs with a frequency of 8-12 hertz beta rhythm, beta wave - the normal brainwave in the encephalogram of a person who is awake and alert; occurs with a frequency between 12 and 30 hertz bioelectricity - electric phenomena in animals or plants delta rhythm, delta wave - the normal brainwave in the encephalogram of a person in deep dreamless sleep; occurs with high voltage and low frequency (1 to 4 hertz) theta rhythm, theta wave - the normal brainwave in the encephalogram of a person who is awake but relaxed and drowsy; occurs with low frequency and low amplitude