afferent
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈæfərənt/
KK: /ˈæfərənt/
adjective
Definition
Referring to nerves or pathways that carry signals or information from the outer parts of the body to the central nervous system, such as the brain or spinal cord.
Example
The afferent neurons transmit sensory information to the brain.
Conversation
Did you know that the body has afferent nerves that carry signals to the brain?
Really? I didn't realize they were called that.
Yeah, they play a crucial role in how we perceive sensations.
That makes sense! Our brains need that information to react properly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inward
central
conductive
Antonyms
efferent
outward
peripheral
noun
Definition
A type of nerve or pathway that carries signals or information from the body to the brain or spinal cord.
Example
The afferent neurons transmit sensory information from the body to the brain.
Conversation
Did you ever learn about afferent nerves in biology class?
Yeah, those are the ones that carry signals to the brain, right?
Exactly! I found it fascinating how they work with our senses.
Root Explanation
Afferent → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to or toward) and "ferre" (meaning to carry). The word "afferent" describes nerves or vessels that carry signals or substances toward a central point, such as the brain or heart.
Memory Tip
Think of signals being 'carried toward' ('ad-' means to or toward, and 'ferre' means to carry') a central location, which is what afferent means.
Visually Confused Words
efferent
different
fervent
ferment
affront