# neuron

/ˈnʊɹɑn/ (US) · /njˈuːɹɒn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/neuron
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a special cell in your brain and body that sends and receives messages using electricity.

For teachers: an electrically excitable cell that processes and transmits information through electrical and chemical signals.

## Examples

- The brain contains billions of neurons that communicate with each other.
- When you touch a hot surface, sensory neurons send a fast signal to your brain to pull your hand away.
- The complex architecture of the human brain relies on the synaptic connections formed between neurons, which allow for the rapid integration of sensory data and cognitive processing.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in medical and biological contexts; often paired with 'sensory', 'motor', or 'mirror'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.