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
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.
May Protect Against Cognitive Disease The antioxidants in pomegranates could help improve memory and cognitive function by protecting nerve cells from oxidative damage. Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2025 Body of knowledge The longest cell in the human body is the neuron or nerve cell. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Oct. 2025 After serotonin does its job in the brain, nerve cells reabsorb it. Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 12 Oct. 2025 According to the Mayo Clinic, because the disease affects the nerve cells in the brain and spine that control muscle movement, patients slowly lose their ability to speak, eat, walk, and breathe independently. Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Nerve cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nerve%20cell. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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