What does neurologic mean?
“Neurologic” is an adjective meaning connected with the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the mechanisms through which the body senses and responds to its environment. It is used especially in medicine for examinations, symptoms, injuries, and disorders that affect this system. A phrase such as “neurologic disorder” therefore identifies a condition involving the brain, spinal cord, or nerves rather than, for example, a primarily cardiovascular or digestive illness. The word appears in formal healthcare, scientific, and educational contexts, while “neurological” is also widely used and may sound slightly more formal. Its meaning is technical but straightforward: it points to the branch of medicine and biology concerned with the nervous system.
adjectiveRelating to the nervous system, especially the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. The word is also used to describe diseases, disorders, or events affecting neurological function.
- Relating to the nervous system or its structures and functions.
- Relating to neurological disease, disorder, injury, or impairment.
"The scan revealed a serious neurologic disorder that affected her balance and coordination."
"Neurologic testing revealed impaired sensation in her left hand."
"The clinic specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of neurologic conditions."
“Neurologic” is built from roots meaning “nerve” and “study,” a compact reminder that it concerns the body’s intricate signaling system.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does neurologic come from?
The word combines the combining form “neuro-,” from Greek neuron, meaning “nerve,” with “-logic,” ultimately from Greek logos, meaning “study” or “discipline.” Its development follows the history of “neurology,” the medical study of the nervous system. Related English words include “neuron,” “neural,” and “neurologist,” all of which reflect the same Greek roots.
Related word forms
How neurologic is actually used
The adjective is most common in medical and scientific contexts. It is often used interchangeably with “neurological,” although “neurologic” is especially frequent in US medical usage.