Eyestrain - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

visual discomfort

Eyestrain, also known as asthenopia, refers to a condition characterized by discomfort or fatigue in the eyes. It typically arises from prolonged use of digital screens, reading, or other tasks that require intense focus. Symptoms may include dryness, irritation, blurred vision, and headaches. To alleviate eyestrain, taking regular breaks and adjusting screen settings are recommended. It's important to manage lighting conditions and ergonomics to prevent the condition from worsening.

Synonyms

asthenopia, eye discomfort, eye fatigue, visual fatigue.

Examples of usage

After working on the computer all day, I can feel my eyes straining.
She experienced eyestrain after reading for several hours without a break.
Using eye drops helped relieve her eyestrain from the air conditioning.
He adjusted his screen brightness to reduce eyestrain while working late.
Many people report eyestrain when wearing their glasses for the first time.

Interesting Facts

Health

Symptoms can include blurred vision, headaches, and dry eyes, often stemming from excessive screen time.
Using the 20-20-20 rule—looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—can help reduce discomfort.
Proper lighting and ergonomic setups when using screens can significantly reduce the risk of developing eyestrain.

Technology

With the rise of digital devices, eyestrain has become increasingly common, leading to discussions on 'digital eye strain' or 'computer vision syndrome.'
Some software and apps are designed to help minimize eyestrain, offering features like blue light filters and reminders to take breaks.
Wearable technology is now equipped with features to monitor screen time and suggest breaks, aiming to alleviate the risk of eyestrain.

Psychology

There is a psychological component to how we perceive discomfort; anxiety about screens may amplify the sensation of eyestrain.
Mindfulness techniques can help manage discomfort by focusing on relaxing the eyes and reducing stress from intense visual tasks.
Cognitive load theory suggests that too much information can overwhelm the brain, making it feel like the eyes are more strained.

Literature

Various authors have noted the effects of eyestrain in their works, highlighting the struggles that come with intense reading.
In the age of print, the transition to digital formats sparked discussions about the toll on our eyes and the changing nature of reading.
Classic studies in literature detail the evolution of reading habits and the physical toll on readers, from candlelight to backlit screens.

Origin of 'eyestrain'

Main points about word origin

The term combines 'eye,' the organ of vision, and 'strain,' meaning to exert too much effort.
The concept of eyestrain has been recognized since the early days of reading and writing, gaining specific terminology in the 19th century.
Earlier terms like 'eye fatigue' were used before 'eyestrain' became common in the 20th century.

The term 'eyestrain' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'eye,' which derives from the Old English 'ēage' meaning 'sight' or 'vision,' and 'strain,' which comes from the Latin 'stringere,' meaning 'to draw tight.' Initially, eyestrain was associated with labor-intensive work that required prolonged visual focus, particularly in the burgeoning fields of industrial work and reading. As the 20th century progressed and digital technology advanced, the phenomenon became increasingly prevalent due to the rise of computers and electronic screens. These modern developments prompted heightened awareness and research into the symptoms and effects of eyestrain, leading to numerous health advisories on the importance of maintaining visual health in our screen-dominated lives. Today, the term is commonly used in both medical and colloquial contexts, reflecting the ongoing relevance of the issue in contemporary society.

Eyestrain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations