Brain vs. Encephalon — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 14, 2024
The brain is the complex central organ of the nervous system, while encephalon is the medical term specifically for the brain located in the skull.
Difference Between Brain and Encephalon
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The brain is recognized universally as the organ housed within the skull, responsible for cognitive functions, sensory processing, emotional responses, and regulating vital bodily processes. It is central to the nervous system in humans and other vertebrates, playing a crucial role in interpreting sensory information, guiding motor functions, and supporting aspects of memory, speech, and decision-making. Encephalon, on the other hand, is a term used primarily in medical and scientific contexts to refer specifically to the brain as an anatomical structure within the cranial cavity. It encompasses all the major parts of the brain, including the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem.
While "brain" is a term widely used in everyday language, encompassing both the physical organ and its abstract functions like thinking and feeling, "encephalon" is more narrowly defined. It does not typically extend to the metaphorical or abstract uses of "brain," focusing instead on the brain's physical and biological aspects.
The study of the brain, or neuroscience, involves understanding the structure and function of the brain (encephalon) and its role in behavior and cognitive functions. This field bridges the gap between the more general concept of the brain and the specific anatomical structure referred to by the term encephalon.
In educational and communicative contexts, the term "brain" is more frequently used to describe the organ and its functions, making it more accessible and relatable to the general public. The term "encephalon" might be introduced as learners delve into more specialized or advanced studies in anatomy, medicine, or neuroscience, highlighting the transition from a general understanding to a more detailed and technical perspective.
Comparison Chart
Definition
The organ in the skull responsible for cognitive functions, sensory processing, and vital bodily processes.
The medical term for the brain, specifically referring to the part of the central nervous system within the skull.
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Usage
Broad, encompassing both physical and abstract aspects of cognitive and emotional functions.
Primarily in medical, anatomical, and scientific contexts, focusing on the physical structure.
Components
Includes the cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem, and sometimes refers broadly to associated neural networks.
Specifically includes the major divisions of the brain within the cranial cavity: the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem.
Context
Used in everyday language, education, psychology, and general discussions about mental processes and functions.
Used in detailed anatomical studies, clinical discussions, and neuroscientific research.
Accessibility
Commonly understood by the general public; widely recognized and discussed across various contexts.
More specialized term known to those with medical, anatomical, or neuroscience backgrounds.
Compare with Definitions
Brain
Central organ of the nervous system involved in all major body and cognitive functions.
The brain processes information received from the senses to form a response.
Encephalon
Medical term for the brain, emphasizing its anatomical structure.
The encephalon consists of several key structures, including the cerebrum and cerebellum.
Brain
Subject of research in psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive sciences.
Brain studies have advanced our understanding of human behavior.
Encephalon
Used in clinical settings and anatomical discussions.
Encephalon injuries require immediate medical attention.
Brain
Widely known and discussed, relating to intelligence, personality, and consciousness.
Brain health is crucial for overall well-being.
Encephalon
Familiar to professionals in medicine and neuroscience.
Medical students learn about the encephalon in their anatomy courses.
Brain
Responsible for thoughts, memories, emotions, and motor skills.
Learning a new language involves various parts of the brain.
Encephalon
Introduced in advanced studies related to the human body.
The chapter on the encephalon details its functions and diseases.
Brain
Often used metaphorically to denote intellect or mind.
She's the brain behind the operation.
Encephalon
Important in detailed studies of brain anatomy and physiology.
Neurosurgeons must have a thorough understanding of the encephalon.
Brain
A brain is an organ that serves as the center of the nervous system in all vertebrate and most invertebrate animals. It is located in the head, usually close to the sensory organs for senses such as vision.
Encephalon
The brain of a vertebrate.
Brain
The portion of the vertebrate central nervous system that is enclosed within the cranium, continuous with the spinal cord, and composed of gray matter and white matter. It is the primary center for the regulation and control of bodily activities, receiving and interpreting sensory impulses, and transmitting information to the muscles and body organs. It is also the seat of consciousness, thought, memory, and emotion.
Encephalon
(neuroanatomy) The area of central nervous system that includes all higher nervous centers, enclosed within the skull and continuous with the spinal cord; the brain.
Brain
A functionally similar portion of the invertebrate nervous system.
Encephalon
The contents of the cranium; the brain.
Brain
The mind
The plan took shape in her brain.
Encephalon
That part of the central nervous system that includes all the higher nervous centers; enclosed within the skull; continuous with the spinal cord
Brain
Intellectual ability; intellect
An actor not known for his quick brain.
Brain
Often brains Exceptional intellectual ability; intelligence
Has brains and good looks.
Brain
(Informal) A highly intelligent person
We knew the new kid was a brain as soon as she started talking.
Brain
Often brains The primary director or planner, as of an organization or movement.
Brain
The control center, as of a ship, aircraft, or spacecraft.
Brain
The control center of the central nervous system of an animal located in the skull which is responsible for perception, cognition, attention, memory, emotion, and action.
Brain
A part of the brain, especially associated with particular mental functions, abilities, etc.
Brain
(informal) An intelligent person.
She was a total brain.
Brain
(plurale tantum) A person who provides the intelligence required for something.
He is the brains behind the scheme.
Brain
(in the plural) Intellect.
She has a lot of brains.
Brain
(in the singular) An intellectual or mental capacity.
Gerald always acts like he doesn't have a brain.
Brain
By analogy with a human brain, the part of a machine or computer that performs calculations.
The computer's brain is capable of millions of calculations a second.
Brain
Mind.
I have too much on my brain''' today.
Brain
A loose compartment of a backpack that straps on over the top opening.
Brain
To strike (someone) on the head.
Brain
To destroy; to put an end to.
Brain
To conceive in the mind; to understand.
Brain
The whitish mass of soft matter (the center of the nervous system, and the seat of consciousness and volition) which is inclosed in the cartilaginous or bony cranium of vertebrate animals. It is simply the anterior termination of the spinal cord, and is developed from three embryonic vesicles, whose cavities are connected with the central canal of the cord; the cavities of the vesicles become the central cavities, or ventricles, and the walls thicken unequally and become the three segments, the fore-, mid-, and hind-brain.
Brain
The anterior or cephalic ganglion in insects and other invertebrates.
Brain
The organ or seat of intellect; hence, the understanding; as, use your brains.
Brain
The affections; fancy; imagination.
Brain
A very intelligent person.
Brain
The controlling electronic mechanism for a robot, guided missile, computer, or other device exhibiting some degree of self-regulation.
Brain
To conceive; to understand.
'T is still a dream, or else such stuff as madmenTongue, and brain not.
Brain
That part of the central nervous system that includes all the higher nervous centers; enclosed within the skull; continuous with the spinal cord
Brain
Mental ability;
He's got plenty of brains but no common sense
Brain
That which is responsible for one's thoughts and feelings; the seat of the faculty of reason;
His mind wandered
I couldn't get his words out of my head
Brain
Someone who has exceptional intellectual ability and originality;
Mozart was a child genius
He's smart but he's no Einstein
Brain
The brain of certain animals used as meat
Brain
Hit on the head
Common Curiosities
Why is the term encephalon used instead of brain in some contexts?
"Encephalon" is used in medical and scientific contexts for precision and to emphasize the anatomical aspect of the brain.
Can the term brain encompass more than the encephalon?
In everyday language, "brain" can also refer to abstract cognitive functions and intellect, beyond just the physical organ.
Is the encephalon the same as the brain?
Yes, the encephalon is the medical term specifically referring to the brain within the cranial cavity.
Are brain disorders described differently when referring to the encephalon?
The same medical terminology is used for brain disorders whether referring to the "brain" or "encephalon," though "encephalon" might be used in more technical descriptions.
Is knowledge of the encephalon important for understanding brain function?
Understanding the encephalon and its components is crucial for in-depth knowledge of brain function, particularly in medical and scientific fields.
Are imaging studies of the brain referred to as imaging studies of the encephalon in medical contexts?
Yes, in medical contexts, imaging studies of the brain, such as MRIs or CT scans, may be referred to as imaging studies of the encephalon.
How is the encephalon protected within the skull?
The encephalon is protected by the skull bones, meninges (protective layers), and cerebrospinal fluid, which provide physical cushioning and defense against injury.
How do professionals distinguish between different parts of the encephalon?
Professionals use specific anatomical terms for different parts of the encephalon, such as the frontal lobe of the cerebrum or the medulla oblongata of the brainstem, for clarity and precision.
Can injuries to the encephalon affect cognitive functions?
Yes, injuries to the encephalon can significantly impact cognitive functions, depending on the areas and extent of the injury.
How does the study of the encephalon contribute to neuroscience?
Studying the encephalon, including its structure and function, is fundamental to neuroscience, aiding in the understanding of how the brain operates and how to treat its disorders.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
