Definition

A part of a nerve cell that looks like branches and helps carry signals from other cells to the main part of the cell. It can also refer to a pattern that looks like branches found in some minerals.

Example

The dendrites of the neuron received signals from other nerve cells.

Conversation

I was reading about how dendrites help nerve cells communicate.

That's interesting! I didn't know they played such a big role in sending signals.

Yeah, it’s amazing how many dendrites a single nerve can have.

For sure! It really shows how complex our brains are.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dendrite → It is formed from "dendron" (δένδρον) (meaning tree in Greek) and the suffix "-ite" (meaning related to or resembling). The word "dendrite" refers to a branched structure resembling a tree, commonly used in biology to describe the branching extensions of neurons.

Memory Tip

Imagine a tree with its branches spreading out — that's what a dendrite looks like, as it resembles a tree ('dendron') in its structure.

Visually Confused Words