Definition

Referring to the part of a nerve cell that sends signals to another cell at a synapse, occurring before the signal is transmitted.

Example

The presynaptic neuron releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Conversation

Did you know that the brain has presynaptic neurons?

Really? I didn’t know what that meant until now.

Yeah, they release neurotransmitters into the synapse.

That’s fascinating! The brain is so complex.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Presynaptic → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "synaptic" (from Greek "synapsis", meaning connection or junction). The term refers to the part of a neuron that is located before the synapse, where signals are transmitted to the next neuron.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning before, and 'synaptic' relating to connections between neurons — presynaptic refers to the part that sends signals before the connection.

Visually Confused Words