the part of the central nervous system enclosed in the cranium of humans and other vertebrates, consisting of a soft, convoluted mass of gray and white matter and serving to control and coordinate the mental and physical actions.
(in many invertebrates) a part of the nervous system more or less corresponding to the brain of vertebrates.
the brain as the center of thought, understanding, etc.; mind; intellect.
a member of a group who is regarded as its intellectual leader or planner: The junior partner is the brains of the firm.
a very intelligent or brilliant person.
the controlling or guiding mechanism in a computer, robot, pacemaker, etc.
the part of a computer system for coordination or guidance, as of a missile.
to try very hard to understand and work out a problem, remember something, etc.: She beat her brains out studying for the exam.
to have an obsession; be occupied with: Lately I seem to have food on the brain.
to obtain information by questioning another person rather than by seeking it independently: He refused to prepare for the exam but counted on being able to pick his roommate's brains.