Retinal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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retinal
[ˈrɛtɪnəl ]
Definition
eye anatomy
Retinal refers to anything related to the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It plays a crucial role in vision by converting light into neural signals that are sent to the brain.
Synonyms
ocular, retina-related, visual.
Examples of usage
- The retinal cells are essential for detecting light.
- Photoreceptors in the retinal layer respond to different light wavelengths.
- Damage to the retinal tissue can lead to vision loss.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Retinal is crucial for the process of vision; it changes shape in response to light, initiating the visual signal sent to the brain.
- Without sufficient retinal, you can experience night blindness because it is vital for low-light vision.
- Research has shown that certain diets rich in vitamin A can help maintain healthy levels of retinal and enhance vision.
Health
- Deficiency in dietary vitamin A, which is related to retinal, can lead to serious vision problems, including blindness.
- Retinal degeneration is a major cause of vision loss, particularly in diseases like retinitis pigmentosa.
- Eye doctors often measure retinal function as part of eye exams to detect potential issues early on.
Pop Culture
- In the world of animation, vibrant colors are often likened to retinal responses, showcasing how essential vision is to art.
- Movies and books about science often highlight the discovery of retinal, emphasizing its role in unlocking the mysteries of human sight.
- The term 'retinal' appears in various tech discussions about augmented reality, where enhancing visual perception is key.
Literature
- Literature often uses metaphors related to vision, with 'retinal' symbolizing clarity and insight.
- Poets have described the experience of sight through vivid imagery, invoking the term 'retinal' to emphasize its beauty.
- Fiction involving medical themes frequently mentions retinal health as a plot point, highlighting its importance in the human experience.
Origin of 'retinal'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'retinal' comes from the Latin word 'retina', meaning 'net', which relates to the net-like structure of the eye's light-sensitive cells.
- It was first used in a scientific context in the early 19th century to describe this part of the eye.
- In biology, retinal is derived from vitamin A, highlighting its importance in vision and eye health.
The term 'retinal' originates from the Latin word 'retina,' which means 'net.' This name reflects the net-like structure of the retina within the eye. The retina has been studied since ancient times, with early notions of vision being tied to the function of this essential component of the eye. Over centuries, our understanding of the retina's complex structure and functioning has advanced significantly, particularly with the advent of modern science and technology. In the 19th century, anatomists began to grasp the detailed layers of the retina and its role in visual processes, which has led to profound implications for both medical and optical fields. Today, the study of retinal health is paramount in disciplines such as ophthalmology and vision science, emphasizing its importance in understanding broader aspects of human health.