DEFENSE REFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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A defense reflex is an involuntary response or reaction exhibited by an organism, primarily triggered by the threat of harm or danger. It is an automatic, protective mechanism that helps ensure the survival of the individual. Also referred to as a defensive reflex or a defensive reaction, it involves rapid and instinctual actions that serve to defend and safeguard the organism.
The defense reflex is present in various animals, including humans, and serves as a vital component of their natural instinct for self-preservation. When exposed to a potentially harmful stimulus or imminent danger, the organism's nervous system initiates a rapid series of physiological responses that aim to protect them from harm. These responses often include heightened alertness, increased heart rate, dilation of blood vessels, sweating, and muscular tension.
The defense reflex can manifest in different forms, depending on the specific threat faced. For instance, when suddenly confronted by an external threat, such as a loud noise or a surprise attack, the defense reflex may trigger a startle response characterized by jumping, recoiling, or a reflexive protective covering of vulnerable body parts.
Overall, the defense reflex plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival and well-being of organisms by activating swift protective measures in response to potential harm, enabling them to better adapt to their environment and evade dangerous situations.
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Withdrawal of the foot by flexion of the knee, and sometimes of the thigh, following irritation of the leg or sole of the foot; this may occur when there is complete paralysis as regards voluntary movement.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DEFENSE REFLEX
- sefense reflex
- xefense reflex
- cefense reflex
- fefense reflex
- refense reflex
- eefense reflex
- dwfense reflex
- dsfense reflex
- ddfense reflex
- drfense reflex
- d4fense reflex
- d3fense reflex
- dedense reflex
- decense reflex
- devense reflex
- degense reflex
- detense reflex
- derense reflex
- defwnse reflex
- defsnse reflex
Etymology of DEFENSE REFLEX
The word "defense" originates from the Latin word "defendere", which is a compound of "de-" (meaning "away" or "off") and "fendere" (meaning "to strike" or "to ward off"). Thus, "defendere" signifies "to ward off" or "to protect". The word "reflex" comes from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "bent back" or "turned back". It is derived from the prefix "re-" (meaning "back" or "again") and the verb "flectere" (meaning "to bend" or "to turn"). In the context of "defense reflex", the term refers to an automatic bodily response or action performed instinctively to protect oneself from harm.
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