Synapse vs. Synapsis — What's the Difference?

In the nervous system, a synapse is a structure that permits a neuron (or nerve cell) to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another neuron or to the target effector cell. Synapses are essential to the transmission of nervous impulses from one neuron to another.

Synapsis (also called harsha) is the pairing of two chromosomes that occurs during meiosis. It allows matching-up of homologous pairs prior to their segregation, and possible chromosomal crossover between them.

A junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter.

The side-by-side association of homologous chromosomes during the first prophase of meiosis.

The junction across which a nerve impulse passes from an axon terminal to a neuron, muscle cell, or gland cell.

The association of homologous maternal and paternal chromosomes during the initial part of meiosis.

To form a synapse.

Alternative form of synapse

To undergo synapsis.

The side by side pairing of homologous maternal and paternal chromosomes at the start of meiosis

The junction between the terminal of a neuron and either another neuron or a muscle or gland cell, over which nerve impulses pass.

(intransitive) To form a synapse.

(intransitive) To undergo synapsis.

The junction between two neurons (axon-to-dendrite) or between a neuron and a muscle;