Glia is a term that refers to a type of cell found in the central nervous system that is critical for neuronal function. Synonyms for the word glia include neuroglia, supporting cells, glial cells, and astroglia. These cells come in various forms and perform diverse functions that are critical to neuronal network formation and maintenance. For example, astrocytes play a critical role in maintaining the blood-brain barrier and providing metabolic support to neurons, while oligodendrocytes are responsible for myelination of axons. Understanding the role of these different types of glial cells in the central nervous system is critical to advancing our understanding of neurological function and treating neurological disorders.