When you say 'synapse' are you speaking Greek?

'Synapse' is a word borrowed from Greek 'synapsis'. The word entered the English language some time around 1910.

synapse [verb] [1910]

• to form a synapse
• to come together in

Meaning: Junction where nerve signals pass between cells.

Etymology: Greek synapsis meaning conjunction.

Origins: From Greek to English. Alternatively: From Greek to New Latin to English.

note: Meaning: Junction where nerve signals pass between cells. Etymology: From Greek synapsis. Merriam-Webster gives New Latin as intermediary.

See 'synapse' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Greek.

See more loan words from 1910s.