noun

synapse

SIN-aps

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Synapse (noun) means a synapse is the junction between the end of a nerve cell and another nerve cell, or a muscle or gland cell, across which nerve signals pass. Example: “Signals cross the synapse between the two neurons in a fraction of a second.”

noun

A synapse is the junction between the end of a nerve cell and another nerve cell, or a muscle or gland cell, across which nerve signals pass.

"Signals cross the synapse between the two neurons in a fraction of a second."

"Some drugs work by changing how chemicals move across a synapse."

"Each neuron can form thousands of synapses with its neighbours."

How to use synapse

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA synapse is the tiny junction where one nerve cell hands its signal on to the next.

When to use it

This is a technical term from biology and medicine, though it also appears in general science writing.

Memory tip

Remember the stress falls on the first syllable, SIN-aps, not on the second.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

electrical synapse chemical synapse form a synapse fire across a synapse synapse between neurons

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Signals cross the _____ between the two neurons in a fraction of a second.

Etymology

Synapse is a learned borrowing from the Ancient Greek word for a conjunction or joining, itself from a verb meaning to clasp together. The English term was introduced by the neurophysiologist Charles Scott Sherrington.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Rhymes for synapse

apse lapse relapse collapse

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Frequently asked questions

What is a synapse in simple terms?

It is the tiny gap and junction where one nerve cell passes its signal on to another nerve cell, or to a muscle or gland cell.

Who coined the word synapse?

It was introduced by the neurophysiologist Charles Scott Sherrington, building on an Ancient Greek word meaning a joining or clasping together.

Is a synapse a physical gap or a connection?

It is the point of contact itself, the junction across which a nerve impulse travels from one cell to the next.

What is the meaning of synapse?

"synapse" (noun) means a synapse is the junction between the end of a nerve cell and another nerve cell, or a muscle or gland cell, across which nerve signals pass.