Retinal
RET-ih-nuhl
/ˈrɛt.ɪ.nəl/
Relating to the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue lining the back of the inner eyeball.
Often appears in terms like retinal scan, retinal detachment, or retinal imaging.
The story behind the word. From Medieval Latin 'retina', derived from Latin 'rete' (net). Ancient anatomists who dissected eyes noted that the delicate network of blood vessels behind the lens resembled a fine fishing net!
Word relationships
- ocular: Broader term referring to the whole eye rather than the rear light-sensitive layer.
Commonly confused with
- Retinol: Retinol is a Vitamin A chemical derivative used in skincare, whereas retinal is an adjective describing retina tissue.
Word family
- retina (noun): The light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eyeball.
Collocations
- retinal scan
- retinal detachment
- retinal imaging
Example sentences
- "The eye doctor ordered a retinal scan to check for signs of damage behind the lens." Medical diagnosis
Memory hook
RETINA looks like a NET (rete) holding light-sensitive cells. Net-like eye lining.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'retinol' (a form of Vitamin A), though chemically related in visual pigments.
Fun facts
- The human retinal layer contains approximately 120 million rod cells and 6 million cone cells.
Related words
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