Calyon

/ˈkæl.i.ɒn/ noun

Definition

In biology, another term for the main body or soma of a nerve cell (neuron), distinct from its extensions like axons and dendrites.

Etymology

From Greek 'kalyon' meaning cup or chalice, chosen because the neuron cell body resembles a cup from which the axon and dendrites extend like handles.

Kelly Says

This term shows how scientists literally look at cells and name parts based on what they *see*—the cell body looked like a cup to early microscopists, so they called it 'calyon,' a perfect example of descriptive naming.

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