myelin

noun

my·​e·​lin ˈmī-ə-lən 

: a soft white material that forms a thick layer around the axons of some neurons and is composed chiefly of lipids (such as cerebroside and cholesterol), water, and smaller amounts of protein

myelinic

ˌmī-ə-ˈli-nik 

adjective

Examples of myelin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Biotin is thought to play a role in the creation of myelin, the protective layer surrounding nerves in the body. —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 27 Sep. 2024

The particular cells imaged here are precursors to oligodendrocytes, cells that produce myelin in the body, the substance that forms protective sheaths around nerve fibers. —Michael Franco, New Atlas, 21 Sep. 2024

When myelin is damaged or lost in a process known as demyelination, various symptoms like fatigue, blurry vision, abnormal sensations, and bladder dysfunction can develop. —Laura Campedelli, Verywell Health, 30 July 2024

The disease affects the central nervous system, attacking the substance that protects nerve fibers (myelin), damaging nerves and disrupting communication between the brain and the body. —Jessie Opoien, Journal Sentinel, 22 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Myelin, from Greek myelós "bone marrow" + German -in -in entry 1 — more at myelo-

Note: The term was introduced by Rudolf virchow in "Ueber das ausgebreitete Vorkommen einer dem Nervenmark analogen Substanz in den thierischen Geweben," Archiv für pathologische Anatomie und Physiologie und für klinische Medicin, 6. Band (1854), p. 571

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing myelin

• myelin sheath

Kids Definition

myelin

noun

my·​elin

ˈmī-ə-lən

: a soft white somewhat fatty material that forms a thick layer around the axons of some neurons

Medical Definition

myelin

noun

my·​e·​lin ˈmī-ə-lən 

: a soft white material of lipid and protein that is secreted by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells and forms a thick sheath about axons see myelin sheath

myelinic

ˌmī-ə-ˈlin-ik 

adjective