Dendrite
DEN-dryt
/ˈdɛndraɪt/
A short branched extension of a nerve cell, along which impulses received from other cells at synapses are transmitted to the cell body.
The primary receiving part of a neuron, resembling tree branches, collecting signals.
The story behind the word. The word 'dendrite' comes from the Greek word 'dendron,' meaning 'tree.' This name was chosen because the extensions of the nerve cell that receive signals often branch out in a pattern resembling the branches of a tree. It was first used in this biological context in the late 19th century.
Word relationships
- receptor branch: A descriptive phrase, but 'dendrite' is the precise scientific term.
Commonly confused with
- axon: Dendrites receive signals and transmit them towards the cell body, while axons transmit signals away from the cell body.
Word family
- dendritic (adjective): Relating to or resembling a dendrite or tree.
Collocations
- dendritic tree
- dendritic spines
- branched dendrites
- receive input via dendrites
Example sentences
- "The extensive branching of a neuron's dendrites allows it to receive input from numerous other neurons." Anatomy of a neuron
- "Synaptic connections are typically formed on the dendrites and cell body of the receiving neuron." Cellular biology
Memory hook
DENDRITE sounds like 'tree-DEND' – it's the tree-like branch of a neuron. Tree-like branch
When not to use
Do not confuse 'dendrite' with 'axon'; dendrites receive signals, axons transmit them.
Fun facts
- The complexity of a neuron's dendritic tree is a major factor in its ability to integrate information.
- Dendritic spines are tiny protrusions on dendrites that are crucial for learning and memory, as they are the primary sites of synaptic contact.
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