dendrite

/ˈdɛndraɪt/
noun
  1. A short, branch-like part of a nerve cell that receives signals from other cells.
    • Scientists studied how the shape of a dendrite influences signal strength.
    • The dendrite of a neuron receives messages from nearby cells.
    • Damage to a dendrite can affect how a nerve cell communicates.
  2. A crystal or mineral that has a branching, tree-like pattern.
    • Collectors prize stones that show a clear dendrite pattern.
    • The rock contained a beautiful dendrite of manganese oxide.
    • A dendrite of silver formed naturally in the mine.
What does "dendrite" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean