phosphene

[ fos-feen ]

noun

, Physiology.

1. a luminous image produced by mechanical stimulation of the retina, as by pressure applied to the eyeball by the finger when the lid is closed.

phosphene

/ ˈfɒsfiːn /

noun

1. the sensation of light caused by pressure on the eyelid of a closed eye or by other mechanical or electrical interference with the visual system

Word History and Origins

Origin of phosphene¹

1870–75; < French phosphène, irregular < Greek phôs light (contraction of pháos ) + phaínein to show, shine

Word History and Origins

Origin of phosphene¹

C19: from Greek phōs light + phainein to show