cerebral
UK: /ˈsɛrɪbrəl/ | US: /səˈriːbrəl/
adj. relating to the brain or intellect
adj. characterized by intellectual rather than emotional or physical expression
The word "cerebral" originates from the Latin cerebrum, meaning "brain." The suffix -al (from Latin -alis) forms adjectives indicating relation. Thus, "cerebral" literally means "pertaining to the brain." Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe intellectual or rational thinking, contrasting with emotional or instinctive behavior.
The stroke affected his cerebral functions, impairing his speech.
She preferred cerebral films that challenged the viewer’s mind.
His writing style is highly cerebral, filled with abstract theories.
The debate remained cerebral, avoiding personal attacks.
Neuroscience studies the cerebral mechanisms behind decision-making.