# pons

/ˈpɑnz/ (US) · /pˈɒnz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pons
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a small rounded part at the base of your brain that carries messages between your brain and body.

For teachers: a broad band of nerve fibres in the brainstem between the medulla and the midbrain that relays signals between the cerebrum and the cerebellum.

## Examples

- The pons helps carry signals inside the brain.
- During the anatomy class, the teacher pointed to the pons on the brain model and explained its role in sleep.
- Damage to the pons can disrupt breathing and facial movement because so many nerve pathways pass through this narrow bridge in the brainstem.

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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.