sympathetic nervous system
US /ˌsɪm.pəˈθet.ɪk ˈnɜːr.vəs ˌsɪs.təm/
UK /ˌsɪm.pəˈθet.ɪk ˈnɜːr.vəs ˌsɪs.təm/
1.
the part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, and by diverting blood flow to the muscles
:
•
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response.
•
Activation of the sympathetic nervous system can lead to increased alertness.