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

: cell body

Examples of nerve cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For the new sensor to stimulate nerve cells directly, its output must exceed a threshold of approximately 20 millivolts, according to Tabassian. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2026

These colors were maintained as the embryo formed nerve cells and the cells started to develop into the brain. — John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 23 Sep. 2026

Every time brain tissue is given a good shake, structural proteins called tau can misfold and accumulate in toxic bundles, increasing the risk of nerve cells dying. — Mike McRae 15, New Atlas, 15 Sep. 2026

The approval marks another step forward for patients with spinal muscular atrophy, a rare and progressive disease that destroys nerve cells that control speaking, breathing, and walking. — Ed Silverman, STAT, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for nerve cell

• bagatelle
• calomel
• caravel
• carousel
• carrousel
• citadel
• clientele
• commonweal
• coronel
• decibel
• demoiselle
• fontanelle

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

: cell body