reflex
IPA
Dictionary definition of reflex
An automatic and often involuntary response or action exhibited by the body or a part of the body in reaction to a specific stimulus.
"The knee-jerk reflex was just one of many responses tested by the neurologist."
Detailed meaning of reflex
Reflexes are typically controlled by the nervous system and occur rapidly without conscious thought or intention. They serve as protective mechanisms, helping the body respond to potential threats or dangers. A classic example is the knee-jerk reflex, where a doctor taps a patient's knee with a small hammer, causing the leg to kick forward involuntarily. Reflexes can range from simple, innate actions like blinking when something comes close to the eye, to more complex reflexes like the withdrawal of a hand from a hot surface. Reflexes play a crucial role in maintaining our safety and well-being by allowing the body to respond swiftly to potential harm, often before conscious awareness of the situation.
Example sentences containing reflex
1. The doctor tested my reflex by tapping my knee with a small hammer.
2. His quick reflex saved him from a potential accident on the road.
3. A sneeze is a natural reflex to clear irritants from the nasal passages.
4. Reflexes help us react swiftly to danger without conscious thought.
5. The cat's reflexes allowed it to pounce on the moving toy effortlessly.
6. Reflex actions are essential for our survival and daily activities.
History and etymology of reflex
The noun 'reflex' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'reflexus,' which means 'bent back' or 'turned back.' This Latin term is a combination of 're,' indicating 'back,' and 'flectere,' meaning 'to bend' or 'to turn.' Therefore, 'reflex' can be understood as a response that is 'bent back' or 'turned back' upon receiving a specific stimulus. In the context of biology and physiology, a reflex refers to an automatic and often involuntary response or action exhibited by the body or a part of the body in reaction to a particular stimulus. The term emphasizes the idea that these responses are immediate and appear to 'bend back' towards the stimulus without conscious thought or intention. The etymology of 'reflex' underscores its historical connection to the concept of automatic, involuntary reactions in response to external stimuli.
Further usage examples of reflex
1. She displayed a remarkable reflex in catching the falling glass.
2. The startle reflex is a common response to unexpected loud noises.
3. Reflexes can vary from person to person and can be honed with practice.
4. The baby's reflexes, like grasping, are signs of healthy development.
5. A reflex arc involves sensory input, a spinal cord response, and motor output.
6. His quick reflex saved him from stumbling on the uneven pavement.
7. The doctor examined the patient's knee for any abnormalities in the reflex.
8. She was surprised by the strength of her own startle reflex.
9. A reflex is an involuntary response to a specific stimulus.
10. The pupillary reflex can reveal information about the health of the eye.
11. The athlete's sharp reflex impressed the coach.
12. His reflex to catch the falling glass was instinctive.
13. The absence of a reflex in that area of the body concerned the physician.
14. The sudden loud noise triggered a defensive reflex in the animals.
15. The patellar reflex, often tested at the doctor's office, involves tapping the knee.
16. An exaggerated reflex response can indicate neurological issues.
17. The reflex to withdraw his hand from the flame was immediate.
18. She marveled at how a simple reflex could prevent injury.
19. The reflex to blink protects the eyes from dust and foreign objects.
20. In medicine, doctors often assess reflexes to diagnose neurological conditions.
21. The absence of a reflex in her arm was a concerning sign.
22. The pupillary reflex helps regulate the amount of light entering the eye.
23. The athlete's lightning-fast reflex caught everyone's attention.
24. Reflexes are an essential part of the body's defense mechanism.
instinct, deliberation, consciousness, intention
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/eb68db_0f82c81bc9d541c28e60a7e86b19098f~mv2.jpg, https://static.wixstatic.com/media/eb68db_3d0b76aa2c5f4988a3b79c60fd01ccd3~mv2.jpg, https://static.wixstatic.com/media/eb68db_a31c59b53a234c67ae2430d737e6de8c~mv2.jpg
SAT 3 (Scholastic Assessment Test), High School 10, Physiology and Anatomy
conditioned,impulsive,Pavlovian,reaction,response
eb68db_bafc07660eac4c57a4a6cd5fb6e457ab.mp3
feedback,involuntary,jerk,reactive,rebound,reciprocation
