Rooting Reflex (Noun)
Meaning
Reflex consisting of head-turning and sucking movements elicited in a normal infant by gently stroking the side of the mouth or cheek.
Classification
Nouns denoting acts or actions.
Examples
- The rooting reflex is one of the earliest reflexes developed by newborns and is essential for feeding and survival.
- The pediatrician tested the rooting reflex of the infant by stroking the side of her mouth with her finger.
- Newborns have an automatic rooting reflex that helps them find the nipple and begin sucking.
- As the nurse gently stroked the cheek of the premature baby, she observed a weak rooting reflex.
- The rooting reflex is typically strongest in infants up to three months old and begins to fade as they mature.