Glial

/ˈɡliːəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to glia, which are supportive cells in the brain and nervous system that help neurons work properly.

Etymology

From Greek 'glia' meaning glue, combined with the suffix '-al' meaning relating to. The term was coined because these cells were thought to hold nerve cells together like glue.

Kelly Says

Your brain is only about 10% neurons—the famous thinking cells—but roughly 90% glial cells! These 'brain glue' cells were long ignored, but neuroscientists now realize they're crucial for memory, learning, and even thinking itself.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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