Definition

Relating to vision in low light conditions, where the eyes use rod cells to see, rather than cone cells that are used in bright light.

Example

The scotopic vision allows us to see in the dark, but colors appear less vibrant.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of scotopic vision?

Yeah, it’s that kind of vision we use in low light, right?

Exactly! I read that it relies mostly on our rod cells.

That makes sense, especially when you're trying to see in the dark.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scotopic is formed from "scoto-" (from Greek "skotos", meaning darkness) and "-pic" (from Greek "opsis", meaning vision or sight). The word refers to vision in low light or darkness, hence relating to how one sees in dim conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'darkness' ('scoto-') and 'sight' ('-pic') to remember that 'scotopic' refers to vision in low light.

Visually Confused Words