cerebellum
cerebellum Lexical Profile
cerebellum Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A large, two-hemisphered structure of the vertebrate hindbrain located at the back of the skull beneath the cerebrum, responsible for coordinating voluntary muscular movements, posture, balance, and motor learning.
"Damage to the cerebellum can impair a person's ability to maintain balance and execute smooth, coordinated movements."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'cerebellum' with 'cerebrum'. The cerebrum is the largest, uppermost part of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions, whereas the cerebellum ('little brain') is located at the back of the skull and primarily coordinates voluntary movement and balance.
• Rhymes for cerebellum
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 16th century directly from Classical Latin 'cerebellum', literally meaning 'little brain', the diminutive form of 'cerebrum' (brain).