reciprocal

n. the number that when multiplied by another number gives a result of 1. The reciprocal of x is therefore 1/x and that of 1/x is x. So, for example, 1/4 is the reciprocal of 4.

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Psychology term of the day

October 15th 2024

cerebellum

n. (pl. cerebella) a portion of the hindbrain dorsal to the rest of the brainstem, to which it is connected by the cerebellar peduncles. The cerebellum modulates muscular contractions to produce smooth, accurately timed ballistic movements; it helps maintain equilibrium by predicting body positions ahead of actual body movements, and it is required for some kinds of motor conditioning. [Latin, literally: “little brain,” diminutive of cerebrum]