nerve cell

noun

1
: a grayish or reddish granular cell with specialized processes that is the fundamental functional unit of nervous tissue transmitting and receiving nerve impulses : neuron
2

Examples of nerve cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Freeman’s son Max was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome – a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks nerve cells – earlier this year. Issy Ronald, CNN, 2 Nov. 2024 Guillain-Barré syndrome is a side effect that takes place when your immune system attacks healthy nerve cells, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis in some cases. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024 Magnesium supplementation may affect neurons, calm neurons, and reduce communication between nerve cells and muscles.7 Magnesium plays a vital role in muscle contraction.8 Evidence: Despite its widespread use, research shows little benefit of supplementing with magnesium for leg cramps. Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 31 Oct. 2024 To reduce the symptoms, patients often take prescription medications or receive deep brain stimulation, which sends electrical pulses to nerve cells in the brain. Randi Richardson, NBC News, 24 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for nerve cell 

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nerve cell was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near nerve cell

Cite this Entry

“Nerve cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nerve%20cell. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

nerve cell

noun
: neuron
also : cell body

Medical Definition

nerve cell

noun
1
: a grayish or reddish granular cell with specialized processes that is the fundamental functional unit of nervous tissue : neuron
2

More from Merriam-Webster on nerve cell

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