nerve ending

noun

: a structure forming the distal end of a nerve axon see neuron illustration

Examples of nerve ending 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.
Packed with nerve endings, the soles and toes respond to touch, massage, or even gentle nibbling. Essence, 11 Sep. 2025 When the patch is adhered to the skin and pressed against it, the needles painlessly pierce only the top layer of the skin, not reaching the nerve endings below. New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2025 There are almost no nerve endings in the lungs, so in the early stages, the most common symptom of lung cancer is no symptom at all, says Dr. Keertan Dheda, a pulmonologist at Groote Schuur Hospital. Simar Bajaj, NPR, 12 Aug. 2025 This avoids nerve endings that normally cause pain during a tattoo. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for nerve ending

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nerve ending was in 1868

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Cite this Entry

“Nerve ending.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nerve%20ending. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

nerve ending

noun
: a structure forming an end of a nerve axon that is distant from the cell body

Medical Definition

nerve ending

noun
: the structure in which the distal end of the axon of a nerve fiber terminates

called also nerve end

More from Merriam-Webster on nerve ending

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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