How Do You Spell NICTITATING MEMBRANE?

Pronunciation: [nˈɪktɪtˌe͡ɪtɪŋ mˈɛmbɹe͡ɪn] (IPA)

The word "nictitating membrane" is a difficult word to spell with its unfamiliar combination of letters. However, breaking it down with IPA phonetic transcription can help. It is pronounced /nɪkˈtaɪtɪŋ mɛmbrən/, with the stress on the second syllable. "Nictitating" comes from the Latin word "nictare", which means to blink or wink. The nictitating membrane is a third eyelid found in some animals, including birds and reptiles, that helps protect and moisten the eye. Despite its tricky spelling, the nictitating membrane is an important feature for many creatures.

NICTITATING MEMBRANE Meaning and Definition

1. The nictitating membrane, also known as the third eyelid or haw, is an anatomical structure found in certain vertebrates, including birds, reptiles, and some mammals. It is a translucent or opaque membrane that lies below the upper and lower eyelids, closer to the cornea. This specialized eyelid serves various functions depending on the species.

   In birds, the nictitating membrane is crucial for eye protection during flight. It can quickly cover and protect the eye from foreign particles and keep it moist. Additionally, it filters out excess light, reducing the intensity of bright sunlight.

   In reptiles, the nictitating membrane acts as a protective layer for the eye, serving to clean and lubricate it while not impeding vision. It also helps prevent damage from dust, debris, and potential predators.

   Among mammals possessing this structure, such as dogs, cats, and some primates, the nictitating membrane is less developed and has limited mobility. Its primary purpose is to provide further safeguarding to the eye, particularly in situations where eyes could be exposed to potential harm or irritants.

   Overall, the nictitating membrane is an adaptive and protective feature that supports eye health and survival in various animals, ensuring efficient vision and safeguarding against potential dangers in their respective habitats.

2. Membrana nictitans.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for NICTITATING MEMBRANE

• bictitating membrane
• mictitating membrane
• jictitating membrane
• hictitating membrane
• nuctitating membrane
• njctitating membrane
• nkctitating membrane
• noctitating membrane
• n9ctitating membrane
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• nixtitating membrane
• nivtitating membrane
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• nicfitating membrane
• nicgitating membrane
• nicyitating membrane
• nic6itating membrane

Etymology of NICTITATING MEMBRANE

The word "nictitating" comes from the Latin word "nictitare", which means "to wink". The suffix "-ing" indicates the present participle form of the verb. "Membrane" comes from the Latin word "membrana", meaning "thin layer" or "skin". So, the term "nictitating membrane" combines these two words to describe the thin, protective, winking membrane found in certain animals.