sleep

n. a circadian state characterized by partial or total suspension of consciousness, voluntary muscle inhibition, and relative insensitivity to stimulation. Other characteristics include unique sleep-related electroencephalogram and brain-imaging patterns (see sleep stages). These characteristics help distinguish normal sleep from a loss of consciousness due to brain injury, disease, or drugs. See also NREM sleep; REM sleep.

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Psychology term of the day

May 3rd 2024

corticosterone

n. a corticosteroid hormone with glucocorticoid functions that include regulating the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into energy sources for body cells. The concentration of corticosterone in the plasma is used as an index of stress.