Dendrites are the branching parts of a human neuron that usually receive signals from other nerve cells.
Their tree-like structure gives them a large surface area for synapses. Many dendrites contain small protrusions called dendritic spines, which are important sites of excitatory synaptic input in the brain. Incoming signals change the electrical state of the neuron and are integrated before the cell decides whether to produce an action potential.
The axon generally carries a neuron’s electrical signal away from the cell body. At its terminals, it can release neurotransmitters across a synaptic cleft to influence another cell. Myelin is an insulating material around many axons; it is not the receiving branch of the neuron.
The usual pattern has exceptions. Some sensory neurons have distinctive shapes, and neurons can receive input on their cell bodies or axons as well as on dendrites. Nevertheless, dendrites are the canonical signal-receiving structures in basic neuroanatomy.