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Definition of synapse

synapse

/ˈsɪn.æps/
syn · apse
Adverb:synaptically
•
Plural:synapses
•
Adjective:synaptic
•
Past Simple:synapsed
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Past Participle:synapsed
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Present Participle:synapsing
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synapse Lexical Profile

synapse Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A microscopic junction between two nerve cells, or between a neuron and an effector cell such as a muscle or gland cell, across which electrical or chemical impulses are transmitted.

Example

"Neurotransmitters are released into the gap to carry the signal across the synapse to the adjacent neuron."

• verb

1

To form a functional neural junction with another neuron or target cell (of a nerve cell or nerve fiber).

Example

"Sensory axons enter the spinal cord and synapse directly with motor neurons to trigger a reflex."

2

To pair up side by side during the early stages of meiosis (of homologous chromosomes).

Example

"During prophase I, homologous chromosomes synapse closely to allow genetic recombination to occur."

• Nearby Words

symptomatically
symptomless
synagogue
synapse
sync
synchro
synchronicity

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1897 by British physiologist Michael Foster at the suggestion of classical scholar Arthur Woollgar Verrall, from Ancient Greek 'synapsis' meaning 'conjunction' (from 'syn-' meaning 'together' and 'haptein' meaning 'to fasten').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Synapse. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/synapse
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