neuroglia

This term refers to the collective network of supporting cells in the central nervous system. While it describes a population of various cell types—such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia—it is typically treated as a collective or mass noun in scientific literature.

Because it is derived from the Greek word for glue, the term emphasizes the structural and adhesive role these cells play in anchoring neurons. In a clinical or biological context, it is used to distinguish the supportive framework of the brain from the electrically active neurons.