Definition

Noun: A small, circular channel or duct located at the junction of the cornea and the sclera (the white of the eye). Its primary function is to drain the aqueous humor—the clear fluid in the front part of the eye—into the bloodstream.

Usage

This term is used specifically in medical and anatomical contexts to describe a part of the eye's drainage system. It is a proper noun, often capitalized as the "Canal of Schlemm" or "Schlemm's canal," named after the German anatomist Friedrich Schlemm.

Examples

• In an anatomy textbook: "Aqueous humor flows from the anterior chamber into the canal of Schlemm."
• In a medical diagnosis: "The ophthalmologist noted that the patient's elevated intraocular pressure might be due to a blockage in the canal of Schlemm."
• Explaining eye function: "Proper drainage through the canal of Schlemm is essential for maintaining normal eye pressure."

Advanced Usage

• "Schlemm's canal": This is a common variant name, using the possessive form.
  • Example: "Glaucoma is often associated with impaired outflow through Schlemm's canal."

Variants and Related Words

• Schlemm's canal: The possessive form and most common alternate name.
• Scleral venous sinus: A more technical, descriptive synonym used in anatomical terminology.
• Aqueous humor: The fluid that this canal drains.
• Trabecular meshwork: The spongy tissue adjacent to the canal of Schlemm that filters the aqueous humor before it enters the canal.

Synonyms

• Scleral venous sinus
• Schlemm's canal

Notes on Meaning

This term has only one specific anatomical meaning. It does not have idiomatic uses or phrasal verbs, as it is a highly specialized scientific term.

Noun

1. a circular canal in the eye that drains aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye into the anterior ciliary veins