The word "farsighted" is spelled "f-a-r-s-i-g-h-t-e-d", and the IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈfɑr.saɪ.tɪd/. The first syllable "far" is pronounced with an open "a" sound /fɑr/, followed by the stressed syllable "sight" /saɪt/, which is pronounced with a long "i" sound that resembles the word "eye". The final syllable "ed" is pronounced /tɪd/ with a soft "d" sound at the end. Farsighted means having a clear vision of the future or long-term goals.
Farsighted, also known as hyperopia, is a visual condition where an individual experiences difficulty in focusing on nearby objects, resulting in blurred vision. This condition occurs when the eyeball is shorter than normal or the shape of the cornea is not curved enough, causing the incoming light to focus behind the retina rather than directly on it.
Farsightedness commonly manifests in individuals who can clearly see objects in the distance but struggle with close-range vision. Symptoms may include eye strain, squinting, headaches, and fatigue after focusing on nearby tasks for prolonged periods. This condition is typically detected during early childhood but can also develop later in life.
To correct farsightedness and enhance close-up vision, individuals may need to wear prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. These corrective lenses are designed with a positive refractive power, which helps to redirect light onto the retina, enabling a clearer image. For those preferring a more permanent solution, refractive eye surgeries like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to accurately focus light.
Additionally, farsightedness can sometimes be accompanied by a loss of accommodation, known as presbyopia, which occurs as a natural part of the aging process. This usually affects individuals over the age of 40 and requires bifocal or progressive lenses to address both distant and near-vision needs.
Overall, farsightedness refers to a visual condition where an individual struggles with close-range vision, leading to a constant need for corrective lenses or other vision aids to facilitate clear and comfortable viewing of nearby objects.
The word "farsighted" originates from the combination of two distinct terms: "far" and "sighted".
The term "far" can be traced back to the Old English word "feorr", which meant "distant" or "far off". It has roots in various Germanic languages. Over time, this term evolved into "farre", and eventually became "far" as we know it today.
The word "sighted" comes from the Old English term "sitha", which means "sight" or "vision". The original Germanic root of "sighted" is uncertain.
When "far" and "sighted" are combined, they form the word "farsighted". In the context of vision, "farsighted" refers to the ability to see objects clearly at a distance while having difficulty focusing on near objects.