neuroplasticity
nyoo-roh-plas-TIS-ih-tee
ˌnjʊərəʊplæˈstɪsɪtiːListen
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Syllable breakdown
Dictionary meaning
the brain's lifelong capacity to reorganize its structure, function, and connections in response to learning, experience, injury, or environmental change; includes synaptic plasticity (changes in synapse strength), structural plasticity (growth of new dendrites and axons), and neurogenesis (formation of new neurons, primarily in the hippocampus); foundational principle of rehabilitation after brain injury
Examples
- Neuroplasticity allows stroke patients to regain lost functions through intensive therapy.
- Learning a new language exploits neuroplasticity by strengthening neural pathways.
Synonyms: brain plasticity, neural plasticity
Pronunciation tips
Break it down: neuro- (nerve) + plastic (moldable) + -ity (state). The stress is on the fourth syllable: plas-TIS-ih-tee.
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