The word "toric" is spelled t-o-r-i-c and is pronounced as /ˈtɔːrɪk/. The term derives from "torus," a geometric object with a circular cross-section, which is what the shape of a toric lens resembles. Toric lenses are commonly used in eyeglasses or soft contact lenses to correct astigmatism—a refractive error that causes blurred vision. Toric lenses have different refractive power in different meridians, enabling them to correct the specific irregularities of the cornea that cause astigmatism.
Toric is an adjective that is commonly used in mathematics and optics, primarily in the context of geometry and lens theory. The term "toric" refers to an object that possesses the characteristics of a torus, which is a geometric shape that resembles a doughnut or a tire tube.
In mathematics, a toric object typically pertains to a toric surface, which is a two-dimensional object that can be obtained by revolving a curve around an axis in three-dimensional space. This shape possesses a central hole and is symmetric about its center. Some examples of toric surfaces include the surface of a tire, a ring, or a donut.
In the field of optics, a toric lens is a particular type of lens that has two different curvatures on its surfaces, resulting in different focal lengths in different meridians. This design enables the correction of astigmatism, a refractive error that causes blurred vision. Toric lenses are commonly used in eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct astigmatism and provide clear vision.
In summary, "toric" refers to an object or surface that exhibits the properties of a torus in mathematics or optics. It is characterized by a central hole, rotational symmetry, and can refer to toric surfaces or toric lenses, depending on the context.
Relating to, or having the curvature of a torus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "toric" is derived from the Latin word "torus", which means a rounded or swelling shape. "Torus" itself is a borrowing from the Ancient Greek "toros", meaning "bulging", which is related to the verb "torein", meaning "to swell". In mathematics and geometry, "toric" refers to an object or shape that has a torus-like or doughnut-like form, typically characterized by a ring-shaped structure.