Shortsightedness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shortsightedness

[หˆสƒษ”หrtsaษชtษชdnษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

vision problem

Shortsightedness, also known as myopia, is a common refractive error of the eye where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. This condition occurs when the eyeball is too long, or the cornea has too much curvature, causing light rays entering the eye to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. Shortsightedness is typically detected in childhood or adolescence and can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Synonyms

lack of foresight, myopia, nearsightedness.

Examples of usage

  • He needed glasses for his shortsightedness.
  • Shortsightedness can make it difficult to see the board in class.
  • Many teenagers experience shortsightedness as their eyes develop.
  • Regular eye check-ups can help detect shortsightedness early.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Shortsightedness occurs when light enters the eye and focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
  • It's often caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, with increased screen time linked to more cases in children.
  • Studies show that spending time outdoors can reduce the risk of developing this condition in children.

Pop Culture

  • In literature and films, characters who are shortsighted often symbolize a lack of foresight or inability to see the bigger picture.
  • Famous figures, like musician John Lennon, dealt with shortsightedness, affecting their public personas and everyday lives.
  • Awareness campaigns in pop culture often feature characters wearing glasses to highlight vision problems.

Health

  • Regular eye exams are essential for detecting shortsightedness early, especially for children as they grow.
  • Treatment options include glasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgeries like LASIK.
  • Shortsightedness can increase the risk of developing other serious eye conditions later in life, underscoring the importance of eye health.

Education

  • Understanding shortsightedness encourages discussions about eye health and prevention in school curriculums.
  • Teachers might incorporate activities promoting outdoor play to help reduce the onset of this condition in students.
  • Awareness around shortsightedness can inspire students to take care of their vision through regular breaks from screens.

Origin of 'shortsightedness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shortsightedness' combines 'short,' meaning not far, and 'sightedness,' relating to vision or sight.
  • It originates from the Old English word 'sฤซht,' which means the ability to see.
  • In some contexts, it's related to the term 'myopia,' which comes from the Greek word 'muล,' meaning to shut.

The term 'shortsightedness' originates from the combination of โ€˜shortโ€™ and โ€˜sightedness,โ€™ referring to the ability to see, or sight, being limited to shorter distances. The word 'sight' itself comes from the Old English 'siht,' meaning 'vision' or 'sight,' and 'short' indicates a limitation of distance. Myopia, the medical term for shortsightedness, has roots in the Greek word 'muops,' meaning 'to close the eyes' or 'squint,' reflecting the strain that those with myopia often experience when trying to see distant objects clearly. The understanding of shortsightedness has evolved over time, particularly with advances in optical science and the development of corrective lenses.