MEMBRANA NICTITANS Meaning and
Definition
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Membrana nictitans, also known as the third eyelid or nictitating membrane, is a translucent or transparent membrane found in the inner corner of the eye of certain animals. It is typically present in vertebrates, such as mammals, reptiles, birds, and some amphibians, and serves various functions depending on the species.
The membrana nictitans is a protective structure that helps safeguard the eye from potential harm, debris, and excessive light. It acts as an additional layer of defense, supplementing the eyelids in providing an extra barrier against potential damage, particularly during activities that involve swimming, flying, or moving in dense vegetation. In some animals, it also plays a role in spreading tears across the eye surface, aiding in the lubrication and cleansing of the cornea.
The membrane is usually translucent, allowing some visibility while providing protection. However, it may vary in appearance and texture across species. For instance, in most mammals, including humans, it is relatively small and pinkish in color, often only partially visible. In contrast, in certain birds, reptiles, and some mammals like camels, the membrana nictitans can be larger and more prominent, covering a significant portion of the eye when fully extended.
Overall, the membrana nictitans is an essential anatomical feature in many animals, serving a range of protective functions to maintain eye health and well-being.
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Palpebra tertia, the third eyelid of the horse, consisting of a semilunar fold of the conjunctiva, covering and partly enclosing a curved plate of hyaline cartilage, at the inner angle of the eye.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MEMBRANA NICTITANS
- nembrana nictitans
- kembrana nictitans
- jembrana nictitans
- mwmbrana nictitans
- msmbrana nictitans
- mdmbrana nictitans
- mrmbrana nictitans
- m4mbrana nictitans
- m3mbrana nictitans
- menbrana nictitans
- mekbrana nictitans
- mejbrana nictitans
- memvrana nictitans
- memnrana nictitans
- memhrana nictitans
- memgrana nictitans
- membeana nictitans
- membdana nictitans
- membfana nictitans
- membtana nictitans
Etymology of MEMBRANA NICTITANS
The etymology of the word "membrana nictitans" can be broken down as follows:
1. "Membrana": This term comes from the Latin word "membrana", which means "membrane" or "thin skin". It is derived from the Latin word "membrum", meaning "limb" or "member".
2. "Nictitans": This term is formed from the Latin word "nicto", which means "to wink" or "to blink". It is derived from the same root as the Latin word "nictus", meaning "closed" or "shut". The suffix "-ans" is added to "nicto" to form "nictitans", which means "winking" or "blinking".
