Definition

The part of the brain that includes the medulla oblongata, which controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate.

Example

The myelencephalon is crucial for regulating automatic functions in the body.

Conversation

I was reading about brain anatomy, and I came across the term myelencephalon.

Oh really? What does that refer to?

It's actually the part of the brain that develops into the medulla oblongata.

That's interesting! I didn't know that part had a specific name.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Myelencephalon is formed from "myelo-" (from Greek "myelos", meaning marrow or spinal cord) and "encephalon" (from Greek "enkephalos", meaning brain). The term refers to the part of the brain that is associated with the spinal cord, specifically the medulla oblongata.

Memory Tip

Think of 'myelo-' relating to the 'spinal cord' and 'encephalon' meaning 'brain' — together, they describe the brain region connected to the spinal cord.

Visually Confused Words