Myelin - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Myelin is a fatty substance that forms a protective sheath around nerve fibers, enabling faster transmission of electrical signals in the nervous system. It is essential for proper brain and nerve function.
Definition:
Fatty substance forming a sheath around nerve fibers, aiding in efficient signal transmission.
Synonyms:
nerve sheath, medullary sheath, white matter
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
demyelination, nerve damage
Common Collocations:
myelin sheath, myelin production, myelin degeneration, myelin repair
Derivatives:
myelinated, myelination, demyelinating
Usage Tips:
Use "myelin" when discussing nerve function or neurological health; it’s specific to biology and medicine.
Common Phrases:
myelin sheath breakdown, loss of myelin, myelin repair process
Etymology:
From Greek "myelos" (marrow) + "-in," referring to its origin in nerve tissue.
Examples:
- 1. Myelin insulates nerve fibers for faster signal transmission.
- 2. Damage to myelin can cause multiple sclerosis symptoms.
- 3. The brain produces myelin during early development stages.
- 4. Scientists study myelin to understand neurological disorders better.