How Do You Spell STIGMATISM?
Pronunciation: [stˈɪɡmətˌɪzəm] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "stigmatism" is [stˈɪɡmətˌɪzəm], [stˈɪɡmətˌɪzəm], [s_t_ˈɪ_ɡ_m_ə_t_ˌɪ_z_ə_m] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Pronunciation: [stˈɪɡmətˌɪzəm] (IPA)
Correct spelling for the English word "stigmatism" is [stˈɪɡmətˌɪzəm], [stˈɪɡmətˌɪzəm], [s_t_ˈɪ_ɡ_m_ə_t_ˌɪ_z_ə_m] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Stigmatism is a term used in ophthalmology and optometry to describe a refractive error in the eye that affects the way light is focused, leading to distorted or blurred vision. Also referred to as astigmatism, it is typically caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which prevents light rays from converging at a single focal point on the retina.
The cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye, plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina for clear vision. In a normal eye, the cornea has a smooth and evenly curved surface, similar to the shape of a basketball. However, in individuals with stigmatism, the cornea is irregularly shaped, resembling more the shape of a football. This causes the light rays to focus on multiple points on the retina instead of a single point, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
The symptoms of stigmatism can vary from person to person, with some experiencing mild visual impairments while others may have more severe symptoms, such as headaches, eye strain, and difficulty seeing objects up close or at a distance. Treatment options for stigmatism include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and corrective refractive surgeries like LASIK, which reshape the cornea to improve vision by correcting the refractive error.
Stigmatism is a common condition and can occur in combination with nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia). Regular eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist are recommended to detect and manage stigmatism to ensure optimal vision and eye health.
The condition of having stigmata.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "stigmatism" is derived from the noun "stigma", which comes from the Greek word "stigma" (στίγμα). In ancient Greek, "stigma" referred to a mark or puncture made on the body, often as a form of branding or punishment. Over time, the use of "stigma" evolved to also describe a mark or sign on plants or animals. In particular, it referred to the visible part of a plant's pistil, which receives pollen during pollination.
The term "stigmatism" was later developed in English and specifically refers to a vision condition known as "astigmatism". "Astigmatism" is characterized by an irregular curvature of the eye's cornea, resulting in blurred or distorted vision.
