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illustration Phosphene

Phosphene

[FAHS-feen]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: Greek, late 19th century

1.

A ring or spot of light produced by pressure on the eyeball or direct stimulation of the visual system other than by light.

Examples of Phosphene in a sentence

"Holly rubbed her eyes, causing phosphenes to form."

"The doctor assured her that phosphenes were perfectly normal to see when her eyes were closed."

About Phosphene

The noun is an irregular formation of the Greek noun “phōs,” meaning light, and the Greek verb “phainein,” meaning “to show.”

Did you Know?

Phosphenes are the shapes and spots of light seen when the eyes are closed. These lights occur because the cells of the retina are stimulated: this can be by rubbing your eyes, a forceful sneeze, or a strong cough.

illustration Phosphene

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