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
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Plaques of beta-amyloid accumulate between nerve cells. Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 16 July 2025 According to Tanzi, exercise induces new nerve cell growth to strengthen brain regions affected in Alzheimer’s disease and triggers the breakdown of brain amyloid. Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025 Over time, due to this deficiency, Squish's nerve cells will accumulate waste, impairing cell function and potentially leading to death. Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025 Scientists suspect that disruptions in nerve cell signaling between migraine pain pathways in the brain stem and the limbic system can trigger mood symptoms during an attack. Brigid Dwyer, Verywell Health, 19 May 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 22 Aug. 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

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