Brainpan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brainpan

[ˈbreɪnpæn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

anatomy

The part of the skull which encloses the brain.

Synonyms

cranium, head, skull.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brainpan	An archaic or old-fashioned term often used in literary or historical contexts. The knight's brainpan was protected by a sturdy helmet. He suffered a severe injury to his brainpan during the battle.
cranium	A medical or scientific term used to describe the bone structure that covers the brain. The X-ray showed a fracture in the patient's cranium. During anatomy class, we studied the human cranium in detail.
skull	Commonly used when referring to the bone structure or in a more gritty or serious context. Can have a slightly negative or ominous connotation. Pirates often use the image of a skull and crossbones as a symbol. The archaeologists discovered an ancient skull buried in the ruins.
head	A common everyday word suitable for general and casual conversation. It refers to the entire upper part of the human body. She always has great ideas running through her head. He nodded his head in agreement.

Examples of usage

The doctor examined the x-ray and noticed a small fracture in the brainpan.
She felt a sharp pain at the back of her head, right where the brainpan meets the neck.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

One's mind or intellect.

Synonyms

brain, intellect, mind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brainpan	This is an archaic term for the skull, which is rarely used in modern everyday language. It might still be found in historical contexts or literature. The scientist carefully examined the fossilized brainpan. In the grave, only the cracked brainpan of the ancient warrior remained.
mind	Refers to the set of cognitive faculties including consciousness, perception, thinking, judgment, and memory. It is often used in more general contexts and can be more abstract than 'brain'. He has a sharp mind, always quick to solve problems. Meditation helps to calm the mind.
intellect	Typically used to describe someone’s mental capacity and ability to think and understand complex ideas. Often used in more formal or academic contexts. Her intellect makes her a valuable asset to the research team. The debate offered a true test of their intellect.
brain	Commonly used to refer to the organ inside the skull responsible for thinking and controlling the body, or metaphorically to describe someone's intelligence. It can also be used casually in everyday conversation. The brain is an incredibly complex organ. She has a brilliant brain; she always tops the class.

Examples of usage

He has a brilliant brainpan and can solve any complex problem.
She's always full of creative ideas, her brainpan never stops working.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

The brainpan, or cranium, is made up of several bones that fuse together as a person matures.
It has several different parts, including the frontal, parietal, occipital, and temporal bones, which provide shape and protection for the brain.

Cultural References

In literature and pop culture, the brain is often likened to a computer, and the brainpan symbolizes the protective casing of thoughts.
Phrase 'picking someone's brain' refers to extracting ideas, often likening knowledge to what resides in the brainpan.

Psychology

In psychology, the brain is studied to understand thought processes, and the brainpan is essential for cognitive function.
Certain brain injuries can alter a person's personality, behavior, and cognitive skills, highlighting the importance of the brainpan’s protective role.

Origin of 'brainpan'

Main points about word origin

The term 'brainpan' comes from the word 'pan', referring to a container that holds something, and in this case, it holds the brain.
In Old English, 'pan' was used to describe a shallow dish, showing how the brain is contained within the skull.

The word 'brainpan' originated in the late 18th century, combining 'brain' and 'pan' (from Old English 'panne' meaning 'vessel'). It has been used to refer to the skull encasing the brain as well as metaphorically to one's mind or intellect.