Meaning of the word brainstem in English

What does brainstem mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

brainstem

US /ˈbreɪn.stem/
UK /ˈbreɪn.stem/
"brainstem" picture

Noun

the central trunk of the mammalian brain, consisting of the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain, and continuing downward to form the spinal cord. It controls the flow of messages between the brain and the rest of the body, and it also controls basic body functions such as breathing, swallowing, heart rate, blood pressure, and consciousness.

Example:
Damage to the brainstem can be life-threatening.
The brainstem plays a crucial role in regulating sleep and wakefulness.