Definition

A growth of tissue on the eye that can block vision, usually starting from the inner corner and spreading over the clear front part of the eye.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with a pterygium that was affecting her eyesight.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of pterygium?

Yeah, isn't it that growth on the eye?

Exactly! It can really interfere with vision.

I hope I never get one; they sound annoying!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pterygium → It is formed from "pteryx" (Greek: πτέρυξ, meaning wing) and the suffix "-ium" (used in biology to denote a structure or tissue). The word refers to a wing-like growth of tissue on the eye, resembling a wing.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'wing' ('pteryx') growing on the eye, which helps you remember that 'pterygium' refers to a wing-like tissue growth.

Visually Confused Words