Schwann cell

noun

: a myelin-secreting glial cell that spirally wraps around an axon of the peripheral nervous system to form the myelin sheath

Examples of Schwann cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
By reinsulating damaged nerves and regenerating nerve cells, Schwann cell transplants have earned their stripes in paralyzed mouse, pig and primate studies over the past decade. Nate Berg, Discover Magazine, 28 May 2013

Word History

Etymology

Theodor Schwann †1882 German naturalist

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Schwann cell was circa 1909

Dictionary Entries Near Schwann cell

Cite this Entry

“Schwann cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Schwann%20cell. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

Schwann cell

noun
: a myelin-secreting glial cell that spirally wraps around an axon of the peripheral nervous system to form the myelin sheath

More from Merriam-Webster on Schwann cell

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!