afferent

adjective

Definition of afferentnext
as in sensory

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of afferent Ray 11 carries approximately 11% of the total afferent fibers innervating the star, yet occupies roughly 25% of the primary somatosensory cortex devoted to the star as a whole. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026 Multiple sclerosis can cause optic nerve damage, which leads to an abnormal response of the pupils known as afferent pupillary defect (APD). — Troy Bedinghaus, Od, Verywell Health, 17 July 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for afferent
  1. sensory
  2. receptive
Adjective
  • The researchers also detected these predictive responses in two sensory-processing regions of the thalamus, suggesting that anticipation involves multiple structures beneath the cerebral cortex.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Sentiments from both participants in the book and Grant’s audience echo how revisiting these recipes offers sensory catharsis in addition to talking about their grief.
    — Jessi Roti, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of sensory
Adjective
  • Americans are growing more receptive to socialism, even as their views of big business sour.
    — Bilin Lin, Fortune, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Though the film is now regarded as one of the greatest works of the 21st century, when Del Toro set out to make it, the industry was not receptive to his ideas.
    — Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of receptive

Browse Nearby Words

affects
afferent
affiance
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Cite this Entry

“Afferent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/afferent. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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