# baroreceptor

**Pronunciation:** /ˌbæroʊrɪˈsɛptər/ · BAR-oh-ri-SEP-ter

**CEFR level:** C2

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

A specialized nerve ending that detects changes in blood pressure and sends signals to the brain to regulate heart rate and vascular resistance.

## Examples

- The baroreceptor reflex is essential for maintaining stable blood pressure during sudden posture changes.
- When blood pressure drops, the baroreceptor activity decreases, triggering the heart to beat faster.
- Chronic hypertension can eventually cause the baroreceptor sensitivity to reset to a higher, less healthy level.

## Synonyms

- pressure sensor — A general term for any device or biological structure that detects pressure.
- pressoreceptor — An older or alternative technical term for the same biological structure.

## Common patterns

- baroreceptor reflex — The automatic physiological response mediated by these sensors. — The baroreceptor reflex compensates for the gravity-induced blood pooling when you stand.
- baroreceptor sensitivity — The responsiveness of the sensors to pressure changes. — Reduced baroreceptor sensitivity is often observed in aging populations.

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