| parasympathetic nervous system n. The part of the autonomic nervous system originating in the brain stem and the lower part of the spinal cord that, in general, inhibits or opposes the physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system, as in tending to stimulate digestive secretions, slow the heart, constrict the pupils, and dilate blood vessels. |
parasympathetic nervous system (p r  -s mp-th t k) The part of the autonomic nervous system that tends to act in opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, as by slowing down the heartbeat and dilating the blood vessels. It regulates the function of many glands, such as those that produce tears and saliva, and stimulates motility and secretions of the digestive system. Compare sympathetic nervous system. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | parasympathetic nervous system - 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 nervous system, systema nervosum - the sensory and control apparatus consisting of a network of nerve cells ANS, autonomic nervous system - the part of the nervous system of vertebrates that controls involuntary actions of the smooth muscles and heart and glands |
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