motor neuron

American  

noun

Cell Biology, Physiology.

1. a nerve cell that conducts impulses to a muscle, gland, or other effector.

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Etymology

Origin of motor neuron

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

ALS, a progressive and terminal motor neuron disease, robs a person of the ability to move and, ultimately, to breathe, according to the Mayo Clinic.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Symptoms of motor neuron degeneration could start at as early as 3 months of age and lead to muscle atrophy, paralysis and death, often before the child's second birthday.

From Science Daily • Dec. 7, 2023

They worked with a 67-year-old Pat Bennett, who has motor neuron disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis — a condition that causes a progressive loss of muscle control, resulting in difficulties moving and speaking.

From Scientific American • Aug. 24, 2023

I am a researcher who studies the development of FTD and related disorders, including the motor neuron disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS.

From Salon • Feb. 26, 2023

The distinguished historian Tony Judt, who died in mid-2010 of motor neuron disease, used it to compose essays after his degenerative disease robbed him of the ability to move.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith