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Synonyms for knee jerk


Grammar : Noun
Spell : nee-jurk
Phonetic Transcription : ˈniˌdʒɜrk



Définition of knee jerk

Origin :
  • patellar reflex, neurological phenomenon discovered and named 1876; the figurative use appeared soon after the phrase was coined.
  • noun involuntary kick or reaction
Example sentences :
  • For all that, the cerebrum can exert an influence on the knee jerk.
  • Extract from : « Psychology » by Robert S. Woodworth
  • Reflex action persists; the knee jerk is diminished, pointing to relaxation in tone of the muscles; consciousness is suspended.
  • Extract from : « Scientific American Supplement, No. 1178, June 25, 1898 » by Various
  • Cross the knee to be stimulated over the other leg, and tap the tendon just below the knee cap, and the knee jerk appears.
  • Extract from : « Psychology » by Robert S. Woodworth
  • Anxious attention to the knee jerk inhibits it; gritting the teeth or clenching the fist reinforces it.
  • Extract from : « Psychology » by Robert S. Woodworth
  • We see excellent examples of cerebral facilitation and inhibition in the case of the knee jerk.
  • Extract from : « Psychology » by Robert S. Woodworth

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