Definition

1. Noun:
   • A thin, curved optical device: A small, transparent lens made of glass or plastic, designed to be placed directly on the surface of the eye's cornea.
   • Purpose: Its primary functions are to correct refractive errors of vision (such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) or to deliver medication to the eye.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She wears contact lenses instead of glasses.
  • My contact lens fell out while I was swimming.
  • The doctor prescribed medicated contact lenses for the infection.

Advanced Usage

• "To be in contacts": An informal phrase meaning to be wearing contact lenses.
  • I can't see the board; I'm not in my contacts today.
• "Hard/Soft contact lens": Refers to the material and rigidity of the lens.
  • Soft contact lenses are generally more comfortable than hard ones.

Variants and Related Words

• Contacts (n, informal): A common shortened form of "contact lenses."
  • I need to put my contacts in.
• Lens (n): The general term for a piece of glass or other transparent material with curved sides for concentrating or dispersing light rays.
• Cornea (n): The transparent layer forming the front of the eye, which the contact lens rests upon.

Synonyms

• Corrective lens: A lens designed to improve vision.
• Ophthalmic lens: A lens related to the eye and vision.

Related Phrases

• Contact lens solution: The sterile liquid used for cleaning, rinsing, and storing contact lenses.
  • Don't forget to pack your contact lens solution for the trip.
• Contact lens case: A small container for storing contact lenses in solution.
  • Always replace your contact lens case every three months.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the lens that makes direct contact with the eye, distinguishing it from eyeglasses.
• While primarily for vision correction, specialized contact lenses can also be used for cosmetic purposes (to change eye color) or therapeutic purposes (to deliver drugs).

Noun

1. a thin curved glass or plastic lens designed to fit over the cornea in order to correct vision or to deliver medication