Definition

1. Noun:
   • A transparent, biconvex structure in the eye: The crystalline lens is a clear, flexible structure located directly behind the iris and the pupil. Its primary function, along with the cornea, is to refract (bend) and focus incoming light precisely onto the retina to form a sharp image.

Usage

• The term "crystalline lens" is used specifically in anatomical, medical, and optical contexts to refer to this distinct part of the eye's anatomy.
• It is often simply called "the lens" in general conversation, but "crystalline lens" is the precise biological term.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Cataracts are a clouding of the crystalline lens.
  • The crystalline lens changes shape to allow the eye to focus on objects at different distances, a process called accommodation.
  • The surgeon removed the damaged crystalline lens and replaced it with an artificial intraocular lens.

Advanced Usage

• "Accommodation of the crystalline lens": This phrase describes the process by which the lens changes its curvature to focus on near or far objects.
  • Presbyopia is the loss of accommodation of the crystalline lens due to aging.

Variants and Related Words

• Lens (n): The common, shortened form of "crystalline lens."
  • The eye's lens becomes less flexible with age.
• Intraocular Lens (IOL) (n): An artificial lens implanted to replace the natural crystalline lens.
  • After cataract surgery, an intraocular lens is typically implanted.

Synonyms

• Ocular lens: A less common synonym emphasizing its location in the eye.
• (The) lens of the eye: A descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases

• Lens capsule: The elastic, transparent membrane that surrounds the crystalline lens.
• Lens epithelium: The layer of cells on the anterior surface of the crystalline lens.

Noun

1. biconvex transparent body situated behind the iris in the eye; its role (along with the cornea) is to focuses light on the retina