Neuroscience
NOOR-oh-SY-ens
/ˌnjʊəroʊˈsaɪəns/
The scientific study of the nervous system.
An interdisciplinary field that combines biology, psychology, chemistry, computer science, and medicine to understand the brain.
The story behind the word. The word 'neuroscience' is a modern compound, combining 'neuro-' (from Greek 'neuron,' meaning 'nerve') with 'science' (from Latin 'scientia,' meaning 'knowledge'). While the study of the nervous system has ancient roots, the formal field of 'neuroscience' as an interdisciplinary science emerged in the mid-20th century, reflecting a unified approach to understanding the brain.
Word relationships
- brain science: A more common or informal term for the field.
Word family
- neuroscientist (noun): A person who studies neuroscience.
Collocations
- cognitive neuroscience
- computational neuroscience
- molecular neuroscience
- advances in neuroscience
Example sentences
- "Neuroscience has made incredible strides in understanding the mechanisms behind learning and memory." Academic field
- "She decided to pursue a career in neuroscience after being fascinated by the complexities of the human brain." Career path
Memory hook
NEUROSCIENCE is the 'NERVOUS SYSTEM SCIENCE' – the science of nerves. Nervous system science
When not to use
Do not use 'neuroscience' to refer to general psychology or biology; it is specific to the nervous system.
Fun facts
- The Society for Neuroscience, founded in 1969, is the world's largest organization of scientists and physicians dedicated to understanding the brain and nervous system.
- Neuroscience is a vast field, ranging from studying individual molecules to complex behaviors.
Related words
Explore more words
neural, neurodivergent, neuroplasticity, oceanography, gerontology, Neural Network
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