# cortical

/ˈkɔɹtəkəɫ/ (US) · /kˈɔːtɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cortical
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

relating to the outer layer of an organ or structure in the body, especially the brain. You use this when talking about the part of the brain that handles thinking and movement.

For teachers: relating to the cortex of an organ, particularly the cerebral cortex or the adrenal gland. In botany, refers to the outer tissue of a stem or root.

## Examples

- The doctor explained that the patient had high cortical activity.
- Researchers used advanced imaging to map cortical responses to visual stimuli in the brain's outer layers.
- The study examines how cortical thickness in the prefrontal area correlates with executive function and decision-making abilities in young adults.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in medical, biological, or anatomical contexts to describe location or origin within an organ's outer layer.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.