Learning / English Dictionary |
ANS
Pronunciation (US): | (GB): |
I. (noun)
Sense 1
Meaning:
The part of the nervous system of vertebrates that controls involuntary actions of the smooth muscles and heart and glands
Synonyms:
Classified under:
Hypernyms ("ANS" is a kind of...):
neural structure (a structure that is part of the nervous system)
Meronyms (parts of "ANS"):
autonomic ganglion (any of the ganglia of the autonomic system whose unmyelinated fibers innervate the internal organs)
sympathetic nervous system (originates in the thoracic regions of the spinal cord; opposes physiological effects of the parasympathetic: reduces digestive secretions; speeds the heart; contracts blood vessels)
parasympathetic; 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)
Holonyms ("ANS" is a part of...):
nervous system; systema nervosum (the sensory and control apparatus consisting of a network of nerve cells)