Definition

1. Noun:
   • A short, branched extension of a nerve cell (neuron) that receives signals from other neurons: A dendrite is a primary component of a neuron, functioning to conduct electrical and chemical stimulation received from other cells toward the cell body of its own neuron.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The neuron's dendrites receive signals from thousands of other neurons.
  • Information flows into a neuron primarily through its dendrites.
  • The intricate branching of the dendrite increases the surface area for receiving inputs.

Advanced Usage

• Dendritic arbor: Refers to the entire, complex branching structure of a dendrite.
  • The complexity of the dendritic arbor influences how a neuron processes information.
• Dendritic spine: A small protrusion on a dendrite that is a primary site for receiving synaptic input.
  • Changes in the number of dendritic spines are associated with learning and memory.

Variants and Related Words

• Dendritic (adj): Relating to or resembling a dendrite.
  • The dendritic pattern of frost on the window was beautiful.
• Dendron: An older, less common term for a dendrite.

Synonyms

• Neurite (a general term for any projection from a neuron's cell body, which includes both dendrites and axons, though they have different functions).

Notes on Different Meanings

• Biology/Neuroscience: The primary and most common meaning refers to the part of a neuron.
• Mineralogy/Crystallography: In a different scientific context, a "dendrite" can refer to a crystal or mineral formation with a branching, tree-like structure. This usage is separate from the biological term.
  • The manganese oxide formed a dark dendrite in the limestone.

Noun

1. short fiber that conducts toward the cell body of the neuron