# synapse

/ˈsɪæps/ (US) · /sˈɪnæps/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/synapse
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. nerve junction

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the small space between two nerve cells where a message passes from one cell to the next.

For teachers: the functional junction between the axon terminal of one neuron and the dendrite or cell body of another, or an effector cell.

- Chemicals travel across the synapse to carry information between neurons in your brain.
- The researchers observed how the strength of the synapse changed after repeated stimulation, suggesting a mechanism for long-term memory formation.

Usage: Usually functions as a countable noun in biological contexts.

### 2. to connect nerves

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

to form a connection between nerve cells so signals can pass.

For teachers: to form a synapse or undergo the process of connecting neurons.

- During brain development, billions of neurons begin to synapse with one another.
- The study aimed to determine the specific conditions under which newly formed neurons synapse with existing circuits in the adult hippocampus.

Usage: This verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.

## Examples

- The brain uses chemicals to send signals across each synapse.
- Neuroscientists study how the synapse changes over time to help the brain learn and remember new information.
- The efficiency of a synapse can be modulated by various factors, including the frequency of stimulation and the presence of specific neurotransmitters, which ultimately determines the strength of the neural connection.

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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.