Ans (Noun)
Meaning
The part of the nervous system of vertebrates that controls involuntary actions of the smooth muscles and heart and glands.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The autonomic nervous system, or ANS, regulates various involuntary functions such as heart rate and digestion.
- The ANS works behind the scenes to maintain homeostasis, or a stable internal environment, by controlling functions like body temperature and blood pressure.
- Damage to the ANS can result in difficulties with digestion, bowel function, and urination.
- The ANS also plays a critical role in the body's "fight or flight" response, automatically preparing the body to either confront a threat or flee from it.
- The ANS is often divided into two main branches, the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system, which work together to regulate various functions.