Definition

A highly contagious eye infection that causes redness and swelling in the eyes and eyelids.

Example

The child was sent home from school because he had pinkeye.

Conversation

Did you hear that Sarah has pinkeye?

No way! That sounds really uncomfortable.

Yeah, I hope she gets better soon.

Me too, I heard it's super contagious.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pinkeye → The word 'pinkeye' is a compound of 'pink' (from Middle English 'pynke', meaning a light red color) and 'eye' (from Old English 'ēage', meaning the organ of sight). The term refers to the condition characterized by redness in the eye, resembling the color pink.

Memory Tip

Think of the color 'pink' to remember that 'pinkeye' refers to an eye condition that causes redness, similar to the color.

Visually Confused Words