motor neuron

noun

: a neuron that passes from the central nervous system or a ganglion toward a muscle and conducts an impulse that causes movement

called also motoneuron

Examples of motor neuron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and progressive bulbar palsy are both examples of motor neuron diseases. —Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 3 Oct. 2024

Lou Gehrig’s disease, named after the New York Yankees great who suffered from it — is also known as ALS or motor neuron disease. —Margie Zable Fisher, Fortune Well, 1 Aug. 2024

For Raban a hard, deep solace came in the work of Judt, whose clear mind endured through his decline from a motor neuron disease, ALS, until his death in 2010. —Colin Thubron, The New York Review of Books, 19 Jan. 2023

At 22, Mallon's arms slowly became paralyzed due to motor neuron disease. —Georgia Slater, Peoplemag, 8 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

motor neuron

noun

: a neuron that passes from the central nervous system or a ganglion toward or to a muscle and carries a nerve impulse that causes movement compare sensory neuron

Medical Definition

motor neuron

noun

: a neuron that passes from the central nervous system or a ganglion toward or to a muscle and conducts a nerve impulse that causes movement

called also motoneuron

compare interneuron, sensory neuron