Definition

A fold of skin that covers and protects the eye, allowing it to open and close.

Example

She blinked her eyelid to keep the dust out of her eye.

Conversation

I think I got something in my eye; my eyelid is really bothering me.

Ouch, that sounds uncomfortable! Did you try rinsing it with water?

Yeah, but it still feels like there's something stuck under my eyelid.

You might want to take a break and give your eyes some rest.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Eyelid → It is formed from "eye" (from Old English "ēage", meaning the organ of sight) and "lid" (from Old English "lida", meaning a cover or flap). The word "eyelid" refers to the cover or flap that protects the eye.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'eye' as the organ of sight being protected by a 'lid' — that's why an eyelid is the cover for the eye.

Visually Confused Words