Physiologic Function
moro reflex
[ mawr-oh, mohr-oh ree-fleks ]
Definitions related to reflex, moro:
  • (moro reflex) An involuntary response in the neonate to the feeling of falling or a loud noise characterized by the infant's arms symmetrically spreading out to the side and then back to the midline, and flexion of the fingers and toes, that disappears by 4-6 months of age.
    NICHD Pediatric Terminology
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • (moro reflex) An involuntary, primal response in the neonate to loud noise or the feeling of falling. The response is characterized by the infant's arms symmetrically spreading out to the side and then back to the midline, and involuntarily flexing the fingers and toes.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A reflex found in normal infants, observed when the infant is startled or feels the sensation of falling and characterized by sudden extension of the arms. It is only seen in children and adults suffering from disorders of the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, and is distinct from the startle reflex found in normal children and adults.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
Try this search on: Farlex, Merriam-Webster, Oxford Dictionary, or Wordnik

This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.