Definition

1. Noun:
   • A healthcare professional trained to examine eyes for vision defects and prescribe corrective lenses: An optometrist is a person skilled in testing visual acuity and eye health to determine the need for glasses or contact lenses. They are not medical doctors (like ophthalmologists) but are licensed practitioners of optometry.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • I have an appointment with the optometrist for my annual eye exam.
  • The optometrist used a phoropter to determine my exact prescription for new glasses.
  • If your vision is blurry, you should consult an optometrist.

Advanced Usage

• "To see an optometrist": To have a professional eye examination.
  • It's recommended that children see an optometrist before starting school.

Variants and Related Words

• Optometry (n): The profession or practice of examining the eyes for visual defects and prescribing corrective lenses.
  • He studied optometry at university.
• Optometric (adj): Relating to optometry or optometrists.
  • She received optometric care.

Synonyms

• Eye doctor (informal): A general term for a professional who examines eyes.
• O.D. (Doctor of Optometry): The professional title for a licensed optometrist.

Important Distinction

• Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist: An optometrist primarily performs eye exams and prescribes corrective lenses. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (M.D.) who can perform eye surgery and treat complex eye diseases. An optician is a technician who fits and dispenses glasses and contact lenses based on a prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Noun

1. a person skilled in testing for defects of vision in order to prescribe corrective glasses