knee jerk

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knee jerk

A reflex contraction of the quadriceps muscle resulting in a sudden involuntary extension of the leg, produced by a sharp tap to the tendon below the patella; patellar reflex.

knee jerk

(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Physiology) Physiol Also called patellar reflex an outward reflex kick of the lower leg caused by a sharp tap on the quadriceps tendon just below the patella

modifier kneejerk

made or occurring as a predictable and automatic response, without thought kneejerk support

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Noun

knee jerk - a reflex extension of the leg resulting from a sharp tap on the patellar tendon

knee-jerk reflex, patellar reflex

inborn reflex, innate reflex, instinctive reflex, physiological reaction, reflex, reflex action, reflex response, unconditioned reflex - an automatic instinctive unlearned reaction to a stimulus

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