The term LIKE A NERVOUS SYSTEM can be summarized by the crossword solution AUTONOMIC, which is an adjective meaning 'acting or functioning independently'. It is derived from the Greek words 'AUTO' meaning 'SELF' and 'nomos' meaning 'LAW'. Autonomic is often used to describe the nervous system, which is a network of specialized cells that control the body's functions. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for regulating involuntary activities such as breathing, heart rate, digestion, and other unconscious processes.