phrenics

Noun

phrenics (uncountable)

1. The branch of science that relates to the mind; mental philosophy.
2. The phrenic nerves; the nerves that control the diaphragm.
   • One sees plainly, that while old rabbits, after removal of the influence of the phrenics, can still reach from ½ to 8/9 of the normal quantity of air used, in young animals the proportion stands so that they only respire from ¼ to 1/6 in one minute; and thus they satisfy their need of air so...1888, Max Marckwald, The Movements of respiration, page 20
   • If the phrenics are both cut, the diaphragm is paralyzed; if a single one, that side only remains passive.1907, William Rice Ballou, A Compend of Equine Anatomy and Physiology, page 180