Adjective: parasympathetic ,per-u,sim-pu'the-tik [N. Amer], ,pa-ru,sim-pu'the-tik [Brit]
- Of or relating to the parasympathetic nervous system
"Parasympathetic responses include slowing heart rate and promoting digestion"
- 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
"The parasympathetic nervous system is active during rest and digestion";
- parasympathetic nervous system
Derived forms: parasympathetics
Type of: nervous system, systema nervosum
Part of: ANS, autonomic nervous system
Encyclopedia: Parasympathetic