Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Dendrite
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Dendrite: A short arm-like protuberance from a nerve cell (a neuron). Dendrites from neurons next to one another are tipped by synapses (tiny transmitters and receivers for chemical messages between the cells).
The word "dendrite" means "branched like a tree." It comes from the Greek "dendron" (tree).
See also neuron and axon.
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