retina

noun

ret·​i·​na ˈre-tə-nə How to pronounce retina (audio)
ˈret-nə
plural retinas also retinae ˈre-tə-ˌnē How to pronounce retina (audio)
-ˌnī
: the sensory membrane that lines the eye, is composed of several layers including one containing the rods and cones, and functions as the immediate instrument of vision by receiving the image formed by the lens and converting it into chemical and nervous signals which reach the brain by way of the optic nerve see eye illustration

Examples of retina in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Looking directly at the sun can damage the retina, the part of the eyes that sends images to the brain, which can cause temporary or permanent damage, Browning said. Binghui Huang, The Indianapolis Star, 13 Mar. 2024 The intense solar radiation emitted during an eclipse can harm the sensitive cells in the retina, leading to solar retinopathy, which can result in blurred vision, blind spots or even permanent blindness, according to Prevent Blindness.org. The Arizona Republic, 8 Mar. 2024 There are no pain receptors in the retina so this can happen without feeling pain. Jamie Carter, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 Alongside the robot, several other experiments traveled to the ISS, including a 3D printer that creates small metal parts, an additional robotic arm and experiments to manufacture artificial retinas and regenerate cartilage tissue in space. Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Feb. 2024 While many things distinguish Macs from other laptops, a few standout features include the crisp retina display, speedy response and load times, and impressive 18-hour battery life. Melissa Epifano, EW.com, 9 Oct. 2023 Subsequently, an electrode is placed on each eye to measure the retina's electrical activity in response to light. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2024 The ability to see in low-light conditions involves two structures in the eye: the retina and the iris. Matthew Solan, Chicago Tribune, 31 Jan. 2024 Five months after James’ surgery, there is healthy blood flow to the retina, the part of the back of the eye that converts light into the electric signals the brain converts into images — a major sign of vitality. Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC News, 9 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'retina.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English rethina, from Medieval Latin retina, probably from Latin rete net

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of retina was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near retina

Cite this Entry

“Retina.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retina. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

retina

noun
ret·​i·​na ˈret-ᵊn-ə How to pronounce retina (audio)
ˈret-nə
plural retinas also retinae -ᵊn-ˌē How to pronounce retina (audio)
-ˌī
: the light-sensitive inner layer lining the back of the eye that contains the rods and cones and converts the images formed by the lens into signals which reach the brain by way of the optic nerve
retinal
-ᵊn-əl
-nəl
adjective

Medical Definition

retina

1 of 2 noun
ret·​i·​na ˈret-ᵊn-ə, ˈret-nə How to pronounce retina (audio)
plural retinas also retinae -ᵊn-ˌē How to pronounce retina (audio)
: the sensory membrane that lines most of the large posterior chamber of the vertebrate eye, is composed of several layers including one containing the rods and cones, and functions as the immediate instrument of vision by receiving the image formed by the lens and converting it into chemical and nervous signals which reach the brain by way of the optic nerve

Retin-A

2 of 2 trademark
Ret·​in-A ˌret-ᵊn-ˈā How to pronounce Retin-A (audio)
used for a preparation of tretinoin

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