rhizoverbBeta
DictionarycerebellumMovement coordination
noun

cerebellum

sair-uh-BEL-uhm/ˌserəˈbeləm/

The part of the brain that coordinates movement, balance, and learning physical skills.

The model highlights the cerebellum below the back of the cerebrum.

An anatomically accurate lateral human brain illustration emphasizes the small cerebellum at the BACK and BELOW the large cerebrum in muted warm orange; cerebral hemisphere and brainstem remain pale gray so the cerebellum is clear, its fine parallel folia distinct from broad cerebral folds.
Etymology
cerebLatinbrain
+ellumLatinsmall

The brain root with a diminutive ending gives “little brain.” This anatomical name identifies the brain region that helps coordinate movement and balance, rather than describing its function directly.

In context

Neuroscientifically Challenged2:58
The cerebellum is best known for its roles in movement, which include motor coordination and control, balance and posture
Major Brain Structures and Their Functions

More examples

  • The model highlighted the cerebellum below the back of the brain.
  • The injury affected the cerebellum.
  • Researchers studied how the cerebellum contributes to learning movements.

Forms

cerebellum · cerebellums · cerebella

Similar words

cerebrum
The cerebrum is the large upper brain region; the cerebellum lies below and behind it.
brainstem
The brainstem links brain and spinal cord; the cerebellum has distinct movement-coordination roles.