How Do You Spell NICTITATION?

Pronunciation: [nˌɪktɪtˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

The word "nictitation" is spelled with the letters "n-i-c-t-i-t-a-t-i-o-n". Each syllable is pronounced with a different vowel sound: "nic" with the short "i" sound, "ti" with the long "e" sound, "ta" with the short "a" sound, and "tion" with the "shun" sound. This word means "a quick closing and opening of the eyes" and is often used to describe a wink or blink. It may be easier to remember the spelling of this word by breaking it down into its syllables: nic-ti-ta-tion.

NICTITATION Meaning and Definition

1. Nictitation is a noun that refers to the rapid closing and opening of the eyes, commonly known as a wink or blink. It is a brief and involuntary movement of the eyelids.

   Nictitation is a natural reflex that occurs to protect the eyes from foreign objects or to moisten the cornea. It is often triggered by irritation, bright light, or sudden changes in the brightness of the surroundings. In some cases, nictitation can also serve as a non-verbal form of communication, conveying a message or expressing emotion.

   Nictitation should not be confused with a deliberate wink or blink, which is a conscious action that is performed on purpose. In contrast, nictitation is an unconscious and involuntary response. It typically occurs without conscious effort or awareness, as the reflex is controlled by the autonomic nervous system.

   This term is often used in medical contexts to describe abnormal eye movements or twitches. Excessive or frequent nictitation can be a symptom of certain medical conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or blepharospasm. It can also occur as a side effect of medication or as a result of stress or fatigue. In such cases, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

2. • Winking.

   • 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 NICTITATION

• bictitation
• mictitation
• hictitation
• nuctitation
• njctitation
• nkctitation
• noctitation
• n9ctitation
• n8ctitation
• nixtitation
• nivtitation
• niftitation
• nidtitation
• nicritation
• nicfitation
• nicgitation
• nicyitation
• nic6itation
• nic5itation

Etymology of NICTITATION

The word "nictitation" originates from the Latin word "nictitatio", which was derived from the verb "nictitare". "Nictitare" is a frequentative form of the verb "nictare", meaning "to wink" or "to blink". The Latin root "nict-" is believed to be onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of a blink or a quick movement. Over time, "nictitatio" evolved into "nictitation" in English, specifically referring to the act of winking or blinking.

Similar spelling words for NICTITATION

• nictation,
• nictitate.

Plural form of NICTITATION is NICTITATIONS