Yawn
Yawn
Yawn (/jɔːn/), from the Old English geonian, is a reflex consisting of the simultaneous inhalation of air and the stretching of the eardrums, followed by an exhalation of breath. Yawning (oscitation) most often occurs in adults immediately before and after sleep, during tedious activities and as a result of its contagious quality.
Etymology
The word "yawn" has been in use since before the 12th century. It comes from the Old English geonian, which means to "open wide". The act of yawning is also referred to as oscitation from the Latin os, meaning "mouth", and citare, meaning "to move".
Physiology
Yawning is a complex reflex act which involves the respiratory system, nervous system, and facial muscles. It is characterized by a wide opening of the mouth with a deep inhalation of air, followed by a slow exhalation. The process of yawning is believed to be mediated by chemicals in the brain such as dopamine, nitric oxide, and glutamate.
Contagiousness
Yawning is known to be contagious. Observing another person yawn, reading about yawning, or simply thinking about yawning can trigger a yawn. This phenomenon is a common form of echophenomena - the automatic imitation of another's words (echolalia) or actions (echopraxia).
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Yawn
- Wikipedia's article - Yawn
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