prefrontal cortex

noun

: the gray matter of the anterior part of the frontal lobe that is highly developed in humans and plays a role in the regulation of complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning

Examples of prefrontal cortex in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Chronic stress can cause mood disorders, anxiety and depression and decreases in cognitive flexibility and your brain’s prefrontal cortex, necessary for focused attention and executive functioning. Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025 The prefrontal cortex is located at the frontal lobe of the brain and is involved in various brain functions, with executive function — the ability to self-regulate and plan ahead — being the most significant function. Mark Joseph, Newsweek, 24 Feb. 2025 More specifically, both past research and the current study suggest that REM sleep plays a crucial role in restoring the prefrontal cortex's ability to regulate memory and emotions. Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2025 The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and focus, starts to lag. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prefrontal cortex

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prefrontal cortex was in 1892

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Cite this Entry

“Prefrontal cortex.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prefrontal%20cortex. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

prefrontal cortex

noun
: the gray matter of the anterior part of the frontal lobe that is highly developed in humans and plays a role in the regulation of complex cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning
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