Hippocampal is a term used in neuroscience to describe a part of the brain that is associated with memory and spatial navigation. The spelling of this word can be a bit confusing because the "hippo" in hippocampal is not pronounced the same way as the animal. The correct IPA phonetic transcription for hippocampal is /hɪpəʊˈkæmpəl/. This means that the first syllable is pronounced "hip-o" with a short "i" sound, and the "cam" is pronounced with a short "a" sound. Overall, it is pronounced "hip-oh-kam-puhl".
Hippocampal is an adjective used in neuroscience and anatomy to describe something that is related to or associated with the hippocampus. The hippocampus is a region of the brain that plays a crucial role in memory formation, spatial navigation, and learning.
When referring to the brain, the term "hippocampal" specifically pertains to structures, functions, or processes within or involving the hippocampus. This may include the specialized cell types, neural pathways, circuits, and networks that are present in this region, as well as the various physiological and biochemical processes that occur within these structures.
Moreover, "hippocampal" can also describe phenomena or characteristics that are influenced or affected by the hippocampus. For example, research has shown a link between hippocampal damage and memory loss, suggesting that the term can be used to describe cognitive impairments resulting from damage to this specific brain region.
The term can also have broader implications beyond the field of neuroscience. For instance, it can be used metaphorically to describe anything that is reminiscent of or associated with memory, learning, or navigation. In this context, one might describe a particularly vivid or detailed recollection as having a "hippocampal quality," emphasizing its significance in the individual's memory system.
Relating to the hippocampus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hippocampal" is derived from the Greek words "hippos" meaning "horse" and "kampos" meaning "sea monster". This term was coined because the hippocampus, a structure in the brain, was thought to resemble a seahorse in shape.