Sympathetically (Adverb)
Meaning 1
With respect to the sympathetic nervous system; "the stimulus acted sympathetically".
Examples
- Stimuli that cause the heart rate to increase also act sympathetically by dilating cerebral blood vessels.
- The stress signal sent by the hypothalamus caused an area of the brain to respond sympathetically.
- A sudden loud noise acts sympathetically on an organism to elicit the fight-or-flight response.
- A baroreceptor's stimulus acts sympathetically to increase sympathetic neural activity when detecting low blood pressure.
- Mechanical stretch stimulation of the nerves of the bladder acts sympathetically to increase heart rate and urinary frequency.
Related Words
Meaning 2
In a sympathetic manner; "she listened to him sympathetically".
Examples
- She leaned forward and listened sympathetically as the girl poured out her heart.
- The counselor nodded sympathetically, clearly moved by the patient's anguished story.
- The audience reacted sympathetically to the hero's tragic ordeal.
- The doctor looked at the injured athlete sympathetically, trying to break the news gently.
- The charity worker spoke sympathetically, helping to calm the fearful refugee.