What Does Cortical and Subcortical Mean?

In humans, the cortex is where many of the higher-level functions take place (e.g. decision-making and language). Subcortical. 'Subcortex' means 'beneath the cortex'. The subcortex is where we process more primitive functions (e.g. emotion processed in the amygdala).

What does cortical mean in the brain?

Cortex means "bark" in Latin and appropriately the cerebral cortex is the outermost layer of the brain, made up primarily of grey matter. ... The surface of the cerebral cortex is extensively folded, forming ridges called gyri and valleys called sulci.

What does the word subcortical mean?

: of, relating to, involving, or being a part of the brain below the cerebral cortex subcortical lesions.