1. Plural of brainstem; the part of the brain that connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord and controls vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and sleep.
Usage: Anatomy term; Usually used in medical or scientific contexts

Examples

• The brainstems of different mammals have similar structures.
• Damage to the brainstems can affect a person's ability to breathe automatically.
• Neurologists study brainstems to understand how the brain controls basic life functions.
• The brainstems contain the medulla, pons, and midbrain.
• Injuries to the brainstems are often more serious than injuries to other brain regions.