EFFECTOR Meaning and
Definition
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An effector is a term often used in the fields of biology, physiology, and medicine to describe an organ, gland, or muscle that brings about a specific response or action in the body. It is an essential component of the body's nervous system which helps in controlling and maintaining homeostasis.
The effector receives signals or instructions from the central nervous system, particularly from the brain or spinal cord, and executes the appropriate response. It plays a vital role in the body's motor functions as it transmits information from the sensory organs to the specific organ or muscle responsible for executing the required action. For example, when encountering a hot surface, the sensory receptors in the skin detect the temperature change and send signals to the brain, which then sends instructions to the effector muscles to immediately withdraw or protect the affected area.
Effector organs can be both voluntary and involuntary, depending on their control. Voluntary effectors, such as skeletal muscles, are under conscious control, allowing individuals to consciously execute specific movements or actions. Involuntary effectors, on the other hand, like smooth muscles or glands, cannot be consciously controlled but are regulated by the autonomic nervous system, responsible for maintaining vital bodily functions like heart rate, digestion, or secretion of hormones.
Overall, the effector serves as a critical component of the body's coordinated response system, ensuring appropriate and timely reactions to various stimuli, maintaining homeostasis, and facilitating overall body functioning.
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Sherrington's term for one of the nerve-endings within the muscles, glands, etc.; distinguished from receptor.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EFFECTOR
Etymology of EFFECTOR
The word "effector" is derived from the Latin word "effectus", which means "execution", "accomplishment", or "achievement". It comes from the verb "efficere", meaning "to accomplish" or "to carry out". In English, "effector" refers to something that brings about a specific effect or action. It is commonly used in biology and physiology to describe a muscle, gland, or cell that carries out a response or function in response to a stimulus.
Similar spelling words for EFFECTOR
- effected,
- effectual,
- effecter,
- effectuate,
- Effecting,
- effectually,
- effectivity,
- affect,
- effects,
- effect,
- effectively,
- effective,
- factor,
- Affects.
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