synaptic

adjective

syn·​ap·​tic sə-ˈnap-tik How to pronounce synaptic (audio)
1
: of or relating to a synapsis
2
: of or relating to a synapse
synaptically adverb

Examples of synaptic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the center of the new system is a two-dimensional synaptic transistor array, described as a highly sensitive motion detection chip. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 11 Feb. 2026 The results revealed subjects who napped had weaker synaptic connections in their brains than those who stayed awake. Hunter Boyce, AJC.com, 11 Feb. 2026 Specifically, during deep torpor, synaptic connections in the squirrel’s brain are partially dismantled. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026 A day when the Stanley Cup years finally ride the synaptic road back to long-term memory and the brain finally bumps the past for the present. Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 31 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for synaptic

Word History

Etymology

New Latin synapsis

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of synaptic was in 1895

Cite this Entry

“Synaptic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/synaptic. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Medical Definition

synaptic

adjective
syn·​ap·​tic
si-ˈnap-tik, British also sī-
1
: of, relating to, or participating in synapsis
synaptic chromosomes
2
: of or relating to a synapse
synaptic transmission
synaptically adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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