NICTATION Meaning and
Definition
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Nictation, also known as wink or blinking, refers to the rapid and involuntary closure of one or both eyelids. It is a natural physiological process that occurs regularly throughout the day to protect and moisturize the eyes, enhance visual perception, and facilitate overall eye health.
During nictation, the upper and lower eyelids come together in a swift and coordinated motion, typically lasting for a fraction of a second. This action is controlled by the orbicularis oculi muscle, responsible for eyelid movement. Nictation serves several important functions. Firstly, it helps to spread tears evenly across the surface of the eye, which aids in lubrication, preventing dryness, and maintaining optimal eye moisture. Additionally, nictation acts as a protective reflex, shielding the eyes from potential harm, such as foreign particles, bright lights, or sudden gusts of wind. Moreover, blinking allows the eyes to rest and rejuvenate, reducing eyestrain and fatigue caused by extended periods of visual focus.
Nictation is an innate process that occurs spontaneously and unconsciously, although it can also be consciously controlled to a certain extent. Factors such as tiredness, eye irritation, or emotional responses can influence the frequency and intensity of nictation. Consequently, variations in nictation patterns can be observed among individuals, but in general, the average person blinks around 10-20 times per minute. Overall, nictation plays a vital role in maintaining the health, comfort, and proper functioning of the eyes, ensuring clear vision and protecting them from potential harm.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The act of winking: nictitating membrane, a fold of skin with which birds cover their eyes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for NICTATION
- bictation
- mictation
- hictation
- nuctation
- njctation
- nkctation
- noctation
- n9ctation
- n8ctation
- nixtation
- nivtation
- niftation
- nidtation
- nicration
- nicfation
- nicgation
- nicyation
- nic6ation
- nic5ation
Etymology of NICTATION
The word "nictation" derives from the Latin word "nictatio", which stems from the verb "nictare", meaning "to wink" or "to blink". The Latin root "nict-" can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "kneigh-" or "kneik-" which also meant "to bend" or "to turn". Consequently, "nictation" refers to the act of blinking or winking.
Similar spelling words for NICTATION
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