amygdala
amygdala — noun
- amygdalasingular
- amygdalasplural
1. either of two small, almond-shaped clusters of nerve cells deep inside the brain
either of two small, almond-shaped clusters of nerve cells deep inside the brain that play a key role in how we experience emotions such as fear, anger, and pleasure, and in forming emotional memories
When Yuki heard footsteps behind her in the dark alley, her amygdala instantly triggered a fear response.
collocation: amygdala + fear response
Brain scans taken during Camille's therapy sessions showed that her amygdala lit up every time she recalled the bicycle accident.
brain scan evidence: amygdala activity during emotional recall
Cut grass made Samir's chest tighten — his amygdala linked the scent to the tornado that destroyed his home.
Theo's amygdala showed unusually strong activity when he watched the scary movie.
Doctors have found that damage to the amygdala can affect a person's ability to feel fear.
用法筆記
The amygdala is often discussed in relation to fear and anxiety, but it also processes positive emotions such as pleasure and reward. In scientific writing, the plural form amygdalae (ă-mĭg-də-lē) refers to both structures in the left and right hemispheres.