Wernicke's Area
Definition
Wernicke's Area is a region in the brain that plays a key role in language comprehension. It's typically located in Brodmann area 22, which is found in superior temporal gyrus in dominant cerebral hemisphere, which is left hemisphere for about 95% population.
Analogy
Consider Wernicke's Area as your personal translator or interpreter when you're visiting a foreign country. When someone speaks to you, this 'interpreter' helps you understand what they're saying by translating it into something meaningful.
Related terms
Aphasia: A condition affecting speech and language skills usually caused by damage to certain parts of brain including Wernicke’s area.
Brodmann Area 22: An area defined based on its cytoarchitectonic characteristics; it includes most areas associated with Wernicke’s area.
Temporal Lobe: One of four major lobes of cerebral hemisphere; it houses auditory cortex and plays significant role in processing affect/emotions, language, certain aspects of visual perception.
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Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (1)
- Where is Wernicke's area, known for its role in language comprehension, located?
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