CEREBELLUM

(Lat.), n. n. Se2r(ke2r)-e2-be2l'lu3m(lu4m). ^ Dim. of cerebrum, the brain. Gr., eyx^aAos 6jrr0i6tos, irapeyKt4>aAis. Fr., cervelet. Ger., Kldnhirn, kleines Him, Hirnlein. It., cervelletto. Sp., cerebelo. The little brain or hinder brain; that portion of the encephalon which occupies the posterior fo a of the skull. It is a symmetrical, cordiform ma distinct from the cerebrum proper, from which it is separated by a proce of the dura mater (the tentorium). Its two hemispheres are united by a median proce (the vermis), and are divided into peculiar involuted laminae, certain groups of which have received special names as separate lobes. It is connected with the medulla oblong at a, pons Varolii, and cerebrum by bands of white fibres (peduncles). In structure it consists of a central nucleus of gray matter (the corpus dentatum or ganglion of the c.), imbedded in a ma of white substance; exteriorly, of white and gray laminae arranged in convoluted or arborescent form. Its function is not fully understood, no uniform disturbances presenting themselves when it is diseased. From the effects of experimental irritation, it seems to be connected with the co-ordination of muscular movements, including those of the eyes, and perhaps with the functions of the stomach and intestines. It reaches its greatest development in man. [K; L, 115, 149; a, 17.] C'gebiet (Ger.). The region of the c., including the underlying portion of the medulla oblong at a in the embryo. [I.] [s. 181]