neuron doctrine

the principle that the nervous system is composed of individual cells (neurons) that make contact with each other but do not interpenetrate. Before this doctrine was accepted, many assumed that the nervous system consisted of continuous tubelike networks. Also called neuron theory. [presented in 1891 by German physician Heinrich Wilhelm von Waldeyer-Hartz (1836–1921)]

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

March 13th 2025

fast muscle fiber

a type of muscle fiber found in skeletal muscle that contracts rapidly but fatigues readily. Compare slow muscle fiber.