Thalamus - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
The thalamus is a brain structure that acts as a relay station, transmitting sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex. It also regulates consciousness, sleep, and alertness.
Definition:
A brain structure relaying sensory signals to the cerebral cortex and regulating consciousness.
Synonyms:
brain relay, sensory hub, neural gateway
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
(No direct antonyms; context-dependent)
Common Collocations:
thalamic nuclei, thalamic relay, thalamic stimulation, thalamic lesions
Derivatives:
thalamic, thalamotomy
Usage Tips:
Use "thalamus" when discussing brain anatomy or sensory signal processing in neuroscience contexts.
Common Phrases:
(No common phrases or idioms; technical term)
Etymology:
From Greek "thalamos" (inner chamber), referring to its central role in the brain.
Examples:
- 1. The thalamus processes sensory information before sending it to the cortex.
- 2. Damage to the thalamus can disrupt sleep and alertness.
- 3. The thalamus acts as a relay station for neural signals.
- 4. Scientists study the thalamus to understand sensory perception disorders.