What does GLIAL mean?

Heres the output: Parts of Speech

Glial is an adjective.

Definitions

Glial refers to or relating to neuroglia, which are non-neuronal cells that maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and provide support and protection for neurons in the brain and nervous system.

Pronunciations

US: /ˈɡlaɪəl/

UK: /ˈɡliːəl/

Origin and Usage

The term glial comes from the Greek word "glia," which means "glue." The term was first used in the late 19th century to describe the non-neuronal cells that were found to be present in the nervous system. Glial cells were initially thought to be merely supportive cells for neurons, but research has since shown that they have many important functions in the nervous system, including maintaining homeostasis, forming myelin, and providing support and protection for neurons.

Synonyms

There are no commonly used synonyms for glial.

Related Words

gliad, glair, glare, glias, gloat

Example Sentences

• The glial cells in the brain are essential for maintaining homeostasis and supporting the neurons.
• Damage to the glial cells can result in a variety of neurological disorders.
• Research has shown that glial cells play an important role in learning and memory.