Definition

A type of sensory cell that detects changes in temperature, responding to heat and cold.

Example

The thermoreceptor in your skin helps you feel when something is hot or cold.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a thermoreceptor?

Yeah, I think it's something that helps us feel temperature changes.

Exactly! It detects heat and cold, making us aware of our surroundings.

That's cool! I didn't know our bodies had such interesting sensors.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thermoreceptor → It is formed from "thermo-" (from Greek "thermos", meaning heat) and "receptor" (from Latin "recipere", meaning to receive). The word "thermoreceptor" refers to a sensory receptor that receives heat stimuli.

Memory Tip

Think of 'heat' ('thermo-') being 'received' ('receptor') by a sensory organ — that's what a thermoreceptor does.

Visually Confused Words