synapse

Definition

The connection or junction in the brain where nerve impulses are transmitted, used here as a metaphorical location for active thoughts and persistent mental processing.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'synapsis', meaning 'conjunction' or 'union'. It entered modern scientific English in the late 19th century to describe the point at which neurons communicate with one another.

In the news

The article uses the term to illustrate how stressful work tasks migrate from professional spreadsheets into the brain's internal thought processes, preventing genuine relaxation. It highlights how the 'mental load' persists in our neural connections even after the workday ends.

I’m a Psychologist. How to Switch Off Your Brain From Work On the Weekends

Newsweek

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