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noun

ophthalmology

of-thal-MOL-uh-jee
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Ophthalmology (noun) means the branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, functions, diseases and treatment of the eye. Example: “She trained in ophthalmology before opening her own clinic.”

noun
1
medicine The branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, functions, diseases and treatment of the eye.
"She trained in ophthalmology before opening her own clinic."
"The hospital has a busy ophthalmology department."
"Advances in ophthalmology have made cataract surgery routine."

How to use ophthalmology

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe medical study and treatment of the eye.

When to use it

It is a formal medical term.

Memory tip

The spelling has ph followed by th, which is easy to get wrong.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
optometry
Common pairings
consultant in ophthalmology ophthalmology department ophthalmology clinic ophthalmology appointment
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Can you complete this real example?

She trained in _____ before opening her own clinic.

Etymology

The word was formed in English from the combining form ophthalmo- and the suffix -logy.

Origin: English

Rhymes for ophthalmology

See all rhymes for ophthalmology →

Frequently asked questions

What does ophthalmology mean?
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine concerned with the eye, including its anatomy, functions and diseases, and their treatment.
How do you pronounce ophthalmology?
In British English it is commonly said of-thal-MOL-uh-jee, and many speakers say op-thal-MOL-uh-jee with a p sound instead.
What is a person who practises ophthalmology called?
Such a person is called an ophthalmologist.
What is the meaning of ophthalmology?
"ophthalmology" (noun) means the branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, functions, diseases and treatment of the eye.
Definitions: FreeDict original editorial