The correct spelling of the word for a contact lens used to enhance or change the color of the eyes is "softlens". It may be pronounced /ˈsɒft lɛnz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This is a combination of the words "soft" and "lens". The "s" and "o" sounds come from "soft", while the "l" and "e" sounds come from "lens". The word is commonly used by eye care professionals and is a registered trademark of a specific brand of contact lens.
A softlens refers to a type of contact lens that is made from a flexible, hydrophilic material known as hydrogel or silicone hydrogel. Soft lenses are designed to be comfortable and easy to wear compared to the conventional rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. They are typically used to correct various vision problems, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or presbyopia.
Softlenses are called such due to their flexible and pliable nature, allowing them to conform to the shape of the wearer's cornea, enhancing their comfort level. This type of lens is manufactured using the process of lathe cutting or by utilizing a cast-mold technique, resulting in a smooth and uniformly thin lens surface. Soft lenses have a high water content, which allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea, promoting healthy and breathable eye lenses.
Softlenses also come in various types, including daily disposable, bi-weekly disposable, monthly disposable, and extended wear, depending on the intended duration of their usage. They require proper cleaning, disinfection, and storage to maintain their purity and clarity. Softlenses require frequent replacement, as recommended by an eye care practitioner, to avoid the buildup of deposits or the risk of eye infections.
As a popular choice for vision correction, softlenses are widely available in optical stores and can be prescribed by optometrists or ophthalmologists after a comprehensive eye examination. They provide a convenient and effective solution for people seeking an alternative to eyeglasses or more rigid forms of contact lenses.
The word "softlens" is a combination of two words: "soft" and "lens". The term originates from the field of optometry and refers to a type of contact lens that is soft and flexible.
The word "soft" comes from the Old English word "sōfte", which meant gentle or yielding. It has remained relatively unchanged in meaning throughout its history.
The word "lens" comes from the Latin word "lentilis", which means lentil. This is likely because the shape of a lentil seed is similar to that of a convex lens. The Latin word "lens" eventually made its way into English, and its usage extended to describe the optical device used to focus light.
Therefore, the term "softlens" simply combines the words "soft" and "lens" to describe the specific qualities of a soft and flexible contact lens.