: a receptor (as in the skin) for nociceptive stimuli : a pain sense organ
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebAt the anatomical level, fish have neurons known as nociceptors, which detect potential harm, such as high temperatures, intense pressure, and caustic chemicals. Ferris Jabr, Smithsonian, 8 Jan. 2018 Acute pain begins with nociceptors—long neurons that originate in the spinal cord and end as thin fibers in the skin. Erika Hayasaki, WIRED, 18 Apr. 2017
Word History
Etymology
noci- (in nociceptive) + (re)ceptor
First Known Use
1906, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
nociceptor
noun
no·ci·cep·tor -ˈsep-tər
: a receptor for injurious or painful stimuli : a pain sense organ