Word: Myosis
Definition:Myosis is a medical term that refers to the reflex contraction of the muscles in the eye, specifically the sphincter muscle of the iris. This contraction causes the pupil (the black part of the eye) to become smaller. Myosis usually happens in response to bright light or certain medications.
Usage Instructions: - Myosis is typically used in medical contexts, so it might not be common in everyday conversation. You might encounter it in discussions about eye health or medical conditions.
Example Sentence: "When exposed to bright light, myosis occurs, making the pupil smaller to protect the retina from excessive light."
Advanced Usage: In a medical setting, you might hear myosis discussed in relation to specific conditions or treatments. For example, "Patients taking certain opioids may experience myosis as a side effect."
Word Variants: - Myopic (adjective): Related to or characteristic of myosis, often referring to nearsightedness. - Miosis (alternative spelling): Another spelling of myosis, used interchangeably in some contexts.
Different Meaning:While myosis primarily refers to the contraction of the pupil, it can also refer to a particular type of eye response. It's important to distinguish it from its antonym, mydriasis, which means the dilation (enlargement) of the pupil.
Synonyms: - Constricted pupil - Pupil constriction
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "myosis," as it is a technical term primarily used in medical discussions.
Conclusion: In summary, myosis is a term used in medicine to describe the process by which the pupil of the eye becomes smaller in response to bright light or certain drugs.