Dendrites

/ˈdɛndraɪts/ noun

Definition

Plural of dendrite; branching extensions of nerve cells that receive signals, or tree-like crystalline formations in minerals.

Etymology

From Greek dendron (tree) + -ite (mineral/structure suffix). Named for their striking resemblance to tree branches when viewed under microscopes.

Kelly Says

Your dendrites are like the postal workers of your brain—they collect messages from thousands of other neurons and pass them along, allowing you to think, feel, and move.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.