noun
amygdala
uh-MIHG-duh-luh
Amygdala (noun) means an almond-shaped cluster of nerve tissue deep in the brain that plays a central role in processing emotions such as fear and pleasure. Example: “The amygdala lights up on brain scans when a person feels frightened.”
noun
1
An almond-shaped cluster of nerve tissue deep in the brain that plays a central role in processing emotions such as fear and pleasure.
"The amygdala lights up on brain scans when a person feels frightened."
"Researchers study the amygdala to understand anxiety disorders."
How to use amygdala
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe brain’s emotion-processing centre, especially involved in fear and threat responses.
Common pairings
amygdala response
the amygdala hijack
activate the amygdala
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Word forms
- Plural
- amygdalas, amygdalae
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ lights up on brain scans when a person feels frightened.
Etymology
From Greek amygdale, "almond," borrowed via Latin — named for the structure’s almond-like shape.
Synonyms
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amygdaloid nucleus
corpus amygdaloideum
Rhymes for amygdala
See all rhymes for amygdala →Frequently asked questions
What does “amygdala” mean?
The word “amygdala” means an almond-shaped cluster of nerve tissue deep in the brain that plays a central role in processing emotions such as fear and pleasure. In plain terms, the brain’s emotion-processing centre, especially involved in fear and threat responses.
How do you pronounce “amygdala”?
“Amygdala” is pronounced uh-MIHG-duh-luh (/əˈmɪɡ.də.lə/ in IPA).
How do you use “amygdala” in a sentence?
Here is “amygdala” used in a sentence: “The amygdala lights up on brain scans when a person feels frightened.”
What part of speech is “amygdala”?
“Amygdala” is a noun.
Where does the word “amygdala” come from?
The word “amygdala” comes from Latin. From Greek amygdale, "almond," borrowed via Latin — named for the structure’s almond-like shape.
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