dendrite

Definition

A slender projection of a nerve cell which conducts nerve impulses from a synapse to the body of the cell; a dendron.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek δενδρίτης (dendrítēs, “of or pertaining to a tree”). Equivalent to dendr- + -ite.

Example Sentences

• "Little copses of television antennas. Whiplike, graceful thrilling metal dendrites drawing images from the air, bringing brotherhood, communion to immured apartment people."
• "A typical brain neuron has perhaps a thousand little wires, called dendrites, which connect it with its fellows."

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