brain death

noun
1.
complete cessation of brain function as evidenced by absence of brain-wave activity on an electroencephalogram: sometimes used as a legal definition of death.
Origin
1965-70
Related forms
brain-dead
[breyn-ded] /ˈbreɪnˌdɛd/ (Show IPA), adjective
British Dictionary definitions for brain-dead

brain death

noun
1.
irreversible cessation of respiration due to irreparable brain damage, even though the heart may continue beating with the aid of a mechanical ventilator: widely considered as the criterion of death
Word Origin and History for brain-dead
adj.

1976, popularized in U.S. by the Karen Anne Quinlan case (brain death is from 1968).

brain-dead in Medicine

brain death n.
Irreversible brain damage and loss of brain function, as evidenced by cessation of breathing and other vital reflexes, unresponsiveness to stimuli, absence of muscle activity, and a flat electroencephalogram for a specific length of time. Also called cerebral death.

brain'-dead' adj.
brain-dead in Science
brain death  
Permanent brain damage resulting in loss of brain function, manifested by cessation of breathing and other vital reflexes, unconsciousness with unresponsiveness to stimuli, absence of muscle activity, and a flat electroencephalogram for a predetermined length of time. Patients who are brain-dead may still exhibit normal function of the heart, lungs, and other vital organs if they are receiving artificial life support.
brain-dead in Technology


Brain-damaged in the extreme. It tends to imply terminal design failure rather than malfunction or simple stupidity.