xerophthalmia

[ zeer-of-thal-mee-uh, -op- ]

noun

, Ophthalmology.

1. abnormal dryness of the eyeball characterized by conjunctivitis, caused by a deficiency of tears and attributed to a lack of vitamin A.

xerophthalmia

/ ˌzɪərɒfˈθælmɪə /

noun

1. pathol excessive dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva, caused by a deficiency of vitamin A Also calledxeromazɪˈrəʊmə

Derived Forms

• ˌxerophˈthalmic, adjective

Other Words From

• xeroph·thalmic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of xerophthalmia¹

1650–60; xer- ( def ) + ophthalmia

Example Sentences

McCollum claims that this vitamine is likewise a factor in the prevention of the eye disease known as xerophthalmia, and other scientists also hold this opinion.

From Project Gutenberg

Fat-soluble A, especially with certain minerals, is thought to prevent rickets and a disease of the eye called xerophthalmia.

From Project Gutenberg