The abducens nerve is the sixth cranial nerve responsible for controlling lateral eye movement. In medical terminology, it is also called the abducent nerve or the VI cranial nerve. The term "abducent" derives from Latin abducere, which means "to lead away." Other synonyms for this nerve include the sixth nerve, external rectus nerve, and lateral rectus nerve. Although this nerve has a relatively straightforward function, its damage or impairment can lead to various medical conditions like cranial nerve VI palsy or abducens nerve palsies. Proper diagnosis and treatment of these conditions may require a thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the abducens nerve.