Definition

A condition characterized by inflammation of the eye, particularly affecting the conjunctiva or the eyeball.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with ophthalmia after she complained of redness and irritation in her eyes.

Conversation

Have you heard about the case of ophthalmia affecting those kids at school?

Yeah, I read about it online; it sounds really serious.

I hope they get the treatment they need to recover from the ophthalmia.

Me too! It must be tough for them and their families.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ophthalmia → It is formed from "ophthalmos" (from Greek, meaning eye) and "-ia" (a suffix used in medical terminology to denote a condition). The word "ophthalmia" refers to a condition related to the eyes, specifically inflammation or disease of the eye.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for eye, 'ophthalmos', to remember that 'ophthalmia' refers to a condition affecting the eyes.

Visually Confused Words