Reflex Action

Pronunciation: /ˈriˌflɛks ˈækʃən/

Definitions of reflex action

noun a quick and automatic response to a stimulus that does not involve conscious thought

Example Sentences

A1 A reflex action is an automatic response to a stimulus.

A2 When you touch something hot, a reflex action makes you quickly move your hand away.

B1 Reflex actions are important for protecting the body from harm.

B2 Doctors test reflex actions by tapping the knee with a small hammer.

C1 Understanding the complex neural pathways involved in reflex actions requires advanced knowledge of neuroscience.

C2 Research into reflex actions has led to advancements in the field of neurology.

Examples of reflex action in a Sentence

formal A reflex action is an involuntary and nearly instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus.

informal When you accidentally touch something hot, the reflex action makes you pull your hand away quickly.

slang My reflex action when someone scares me is to scream and jump.

figurative His reflex action to any criticism is to become defensive and argumentative.

Grammatical Forms of reflex action

• plural: reflex actions
• comparative: more reflex action
• superlative: most reflex action
• present tense: reflex action
• future tense: will reflex action
• perfect tense: has reflex action
• continuous tense: is reflex action
• singular: reflex action
• positive degree: reflex action
• infinitive: to reflex action
• gerund: reflex actioning
• participle: reflex actioned

Origin and Evolution of reflex action

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The term 'reflex action' originated from the Latin word 'reflexus' meaning 'bent back' or 'turned back'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the 17th century to describe an involuntary response to a stimulus, the term 'reflex action' has evolved to encompass a broader range of automatic, rapid responses by the nervous system.