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.
It is caused by damage to nerve cells in parts of the brain. Jack Moore, ABC News, 13 Nov. 2025 May Boost Brain Health Pomegranates are loaded with antioxidant compounds that protect nerve cells from damage. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 12 Nov. 2025 Without thiamine, nerve cells can be destroyed, and conditions like Wernicke encephalitis or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can develop. Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 6 Nov. 2025 The progressive disease attacks nerve cells that control muscles, robbing people of their ability to walk, talk and eventually breathe. Kelly Meyerhofer, jsonline.com, 4 Nov. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nerve cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nerve%20cell. Accessed 17 Nov. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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