nexus

American  

[nek-suhs] / ˈnɛk səs /

noun

plural

nexuses, nexus

1. a means of connection; tie; link.

2. a connected series or group.

3. the core or center, as of a matter or situation.

4. Cell Biology. a specialized area of the cell membrane involved in intercellular communication and adhesion.

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nexus British  

/ ˈnɛksəs /

noun

1. a means of connection between members of a group or things in a series; link; bond

2. a connected group or series

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Etymology

Origin of nexus

First recorded in 1655–65; from Latin nexus “a binding, joining, fastening,” noun use of past participle of nectere “to bind, join, tie”

Explanation

A nexus is a central link or connection. If you happen to be at the nexus of something, you are right in the middle of it, like standing in the middle of an intersection. Nexus entered English during the 17th century from the Latin word nectere, meaning "to bind or tie." People tend to use this word to describe the point where different things or ideas come together or intersect. In the field of cell biology, a nexus refers to a specialized area of the cell membrane that facilitates communication and adhesion between adjacent cells. By allowing ions and molecules to pass through, these nexuses ensure that tissues can function as a coordinated unit.

Example Sentences

He speaks of Black inhabitation as transformative living, a nexus between design and humanity.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

The executive action instructed the DHS secretary and the White House budget director to use federal funds that have a “reasonable and logical nexus to TSA operations.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

However, Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran, from the FBI's San Antonio office, said there were indications in the SUV and on the suspect that suggested a "nexus to terrorism".

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2026

"It's a remarkable nexus: an ultra-modern technology being applied to a 2.6-million-year-old fossil to tell a story that is common to us all," Alemseged said.

From Science Daily • Jan. 23, 2026

In one nexus, five highways meet; I have to erase and redraw the ramps a few times.

From "It’s Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini