axon

[ ak-son ]

noun

1. Cell Biology. the appendage of the neuron that transmits impulses away from the cell body.

axon

/ ˈæksəʊn; ˈæksɒn /

noun

1. the long threadlike extension of a nerve cell that conducts nerve impulses from the cell body Compare dendrite

axon

/ ăk′sŏn′ /

1. The long portion of a neuron that conducts impulses away from the body of the cell.
2. Also called nerve fiber

axon

1. The part of a nerve cell or neuron that transfers a nerve impulse from the nerve cell body to a synapse with another cell. ( See action potential .) Depending on the location of the cell, the length of an axon can vary widely. In some cases (such as the axons that form the spinal cord ), they may be several feet long.

Derived Forms

• ˈaxonal, adjective

Other Words From

• axon·al [ak, -s, uh, -nl, ‑-son-l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of axon¹

1835–45; < New Latin < Greek áxōn an axle, axis; akin to Latin axis

Word History and Origins

Origin of axon¹

C19: via New Latin from Greek: axis, axle, vertebra

Example Sentences

One of these processes, the axon, is much longer than the others and ends in a muscle or organ of sensation.

From Project Gutenberg

The axon forms the pathway over which nervous impulses travel to and from the nerve centers.

From Project Gutenberg

We saw a moment ago that every axon is inclosed in a sheath.

From Project Gutenberg

The contact of the axon of one neuron with the dendrons of another is called a synapse.

From Project Gutenberg

Its dendrites are short tree-like branches, while its axon is often several inches or even feet in length.

From Project Gutenberg