vagal

adjective

va·​gal ˈvā-gəl How to pronounce vagal (audio)
: of, relating to, mediated by, or being the vagus nerve
vagally
ˈvā-gə-lē How to pronounce vagal (audio)
adverb

Examples of vagal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The breath hold is believed to further raise vagal tone, which brings down stress hormones and lifts heart rate variability. — Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 23 May 2026 This response, often referred to as the dive reflex, slows the heart rate and increases vagal activity as the body works to stabilize itself. — Chloe Burcham, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2026 Gargling vigorously enough that your eyes water slightly engages the same reflex doctors use clinically to check vagal function. — Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 May 2026 But social-evaluative threat — being watched, judged, and evaluated by others — causes vagal withdrawal. — Amy Cuddy, New York Times, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vagal

Word History

Etymology

vagus (nerve) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vagal was in 1854

Rhymes for vagal

See All Rhymes for vagal

Browse Nearby Words

vagabondize
vagal
vagarious
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vagal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vagal. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

vagal

adjective
va·​gal ˈvā-gəl How to pronounce vagal (audio)
: of, relating to, mediated by, or being the vagus nerve
vagal stimulation
vagally
-gə-lē How to pronounce vagal (audio)
adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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