What does plexus mean?
A plexus is an interconnected network, especially one formed by nerves, blood vessels, or lymph vessels. In general writing, the word describes a complex web of people, institutions, ideas, or activities: a project may draw on a whole plexus of specialists, while an organization may be described as a plexus of local and international connections. Its use often suggests that the parts of the network influence one another and that the whole is more complicated than any single component. Anatomically, a plexus is a specific network of nerves or vessels, such as the brachial plexus in the shoulder region. The related expression “solar plexus” refers to the upper abdomen or stomach area. Overall, plexus is a useful formal word for conveying interconnected complexity, though “network” is more common in everyday speech.
nounA network or interconnected group of things, people, or organizations. In anatomy, a plexus is a network of nerves, blood vessels, or lymph vessels.
- An interconnected network of people, organizations, ideas, or things.
- An anatomical network of nerves, blood vessels, or lymph vessels.
- The area of the upper abdomen commonly called the solar plexus.
"The conference brought together a diverse plexus of scientists, artists, and public officials."
"The report examines the complex plexus of regulations governing artificial intelligence."
"The surgeon carefully protected the brachial plexus during the operation."
The standard plural adds -es: “plexuses.”
"The diagram connects several neural plexuses throughout the body."
From Latin for “braided,” plexus is the word for a network—whether of nerves, vessels, or people.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does plexus come from?
English borrowed plexus from Latin, where plexus meant “interlaced,” “braided,” or “entwined.” The Latin word was a past participle formed from plectere, meaning “to braid” or “interlace.” It entered English in the early 17th century, initially for a network of nerves or blood vessels, and was later extended to figurative networks of people and things. English words such as complex and complexion ultimately share the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How plexus is actually used
In anatomy, plexus is technical and refers to a network of structures. In general use, it is somewhat formal or literary and suggests a dense, interconnected group. The expression “solar plexus” is an established idiom for the stomach or upper abdominal area.
Easily confused with plexus
A plexus is a network or interconnected group, whereas a plex is an individual unit within such a network.