Noun: 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
"The sympathetic nervous system is activated during the 'fight or flight' response"
Derived forms: sympathetic nervous systems
Type of: nervous system, systema nervosum
Part of: ANS, autonomic nervous system
Encyclopedia: Sympathetic nervous system