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

Once contracted, the virus is lifelong, remaining latent or inactive in one’s nerve cells between recurrent outbreaks of ulcers. —Dr. Tal Patalon, Md, Llb, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024

Researchers believe that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in fresh and dried garlic may help reduce inflammation in the brain and protect against nerve cell degeneration, which could help support overall brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.4 3. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 10 Dec. 2024

The virus never goes away, lying dormant in the nerve cells, and may occasionally reactivate and cause recurrent sores. —Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024

One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's is the development of amyloid plaques in the brain, which occurs when a naturally occurring protein, beta-amyloid, clumps together to form plaques that disrupt nerve cell function, according to the NIH. —Lauren De Young, The Arizona Republic, 16 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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