cerebral cortex

noun

the furrowed outer layer of gray matter in the cerebrum of the brain, associated with the higher brain functions, as voluntary movement, coordination of sensory information, learning and memory, and the expression of individuality.

Origin of cerebral cortex

First recorded in 1925–30

Words nearby cerebral cortex

cerebral amyloid angiopathy, cerebral anesthesia, cerebral aqueduct, cerebral artery, cerebral calculus, cerebral cortex, cerebral death, cerebral decompression, cerebral dominance, cerebral dysplasia, cerebral edema

Scientific definitions for cerebral cortex

cerebral cortex

The layer of gray matter in vertebrates that covers the cerebral hemispheres and is composed of folds of neurons and axons. The cerebral cortex is responsible for higher functions of the nervous system, including voluntary muscle activity and learning, language, and memory.

Cultural definitions for cerebral cortex

cerebral cortex

The surface layer of gray tissue of the cerebrum, frequently called the gray matter. The large size of the cerebral cortex in humans distinguishes them from other animals. Specific parts of the cortex control specific functions, including sensation, voluntary muscle movement, thought, reasoning, and memory.