Definition

1. Noun:
   • A transparent lubricating mucous membrane: The conjunctiva is a thin, clear, moist tissue layer that covers the white part of the eyeball (the sclera) and lines the inside of the eyelids. Its primary functions are to lubricate the eye by producing mucus and tears, and to protect the eye from foreign particles and microorganisms.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Dust can cause irritation to the conjunctiva.
  • The doctor examined her conjunctiva for signs of infection.
  • Inflammation of the conjunctiva is called conjunctivitis.

Advanced Usage

• "Bulbar conjunctiva": The part of the conjunctiva covering the eyeball.
  • The redness was localized to the bulbar conjunctiva.
• "Palpebral conjunctiva": The part of the conjunctiva lining the inner surface of the eyelids.
  • The foreign body was found under the palpebral conjunctiva.

Variants and Related Words

• Conjunctival (adj): Pertaining to the conjunctiva.
  • Conjunctival injection is a sign of inflammation.
• Conjunctivitis (n): Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, often causing redness and discharge; commonly known as "pink eye."

Synonyms

• Mucous membrane of the eye: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its tissue type and location.
• Ocular mucosa: A more clinical term.

Related Phrases

• "Conjunctival sac": The space bound by the conjunctiva lining the eyelid and the conjunctiva covering the eyeball.
  • Eye drops are instilled into the conjunctival sac.

Noun

1. a transparent lubricating mucous membrane that covers the eyeball and the under surface of the eyelid