Definition

Relating to a condition characterized by dryness of the eyes, often due to a lack of moisture.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with a xerophthalmic condition that required treatment.

Conversation

I was reading about some eye conditions, and I came across the term xerophthalmic.

Oh really? What does that mean?

It refers to a condition that causes dryness in the eyes.

That sounds uncomfortable — I hope I never have to deal with something xerophthalmic!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Xerophthalmic is formed from "xero-" (from Greek "xēros", meaning dry) and "ophthalmic" (from Greek "ophthalmos", meaning eye). The word describes a condition related to dry eyes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dry' ('xero-') and 'eye' ('ophthalmos') to remember that xerophthalmic refers to a condition involving dry eyes.

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