Pronunciation: [jˈuːvi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "uvea" refers to the pigmented layer of the eye that comprises the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. The IPA phonetic transcription for "uvea" is /juv.i/. The "u" is pronounced as "yoo," and the "v" is pronounced as "vuh." The "e" is pronounced as "uh," while the final "a" is pronounced as "ah." Understanding the phonetics of "uvea" can help individuals pronounce and spell the word correctly in medical or scientific contexts.
The word "uvea" refers to a part of the eye that contains blood vessels responsible for supplying nutrients and oxygen to the retina. It is composed of three distinct layers: the iris, the ciliary body, and the choroid. Each layer has its own unique functions within the eye.
The outermost layer of the uvea is the choroid. It is a thin and highly vascularized layer that lines the back of the eye. The choroid supplies oxygen and nutrients to the outer layers of the retina, as well as removes waste products. It also contains pigmented cells that help absorb excess light, preventing reflections and improving visual clarity.
The middle layer, known as the ciliary body, lies between the iris and the choroid. It consists of a muscular ring and ciliary processes that help focus the lens for near and far vision, and produce the aqueous humor that fills the front part of the eye.
The innermost layer of the uvea is the iris, which is the colored part of the eye that surrounds the pupil. The iris controls the amount of light entering the eye by adjusting the size of the pupil through its muscles. It also provides eye color and plays a role in protecting the eye from excessive light and foreign objects.
Overall, the uvea is a critical part of the eye that supports the optimal functioning of the visual system by providing blood supply, regulating light, and ensuring clear vision.
The tunica vasculosa oculi, the vascular, pigmentary, or middle coat of the eye, comprising the chorioid, the ciliary body, and the iris.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In anat., the posterior layer of the iris, so called from the black and very thick varnish which covers it, and which resembles the skin of a black grape.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "uvea" comes from the Latin term "ūvea", which means "grape" or "bunch of grapes". This Latin word is derived from the Greek term "uvḗ", meaning "cluster of grapes" or "grapevine". The word "uvea" is used in anatomy to refer to the middle layer of the eyeball, which has a dark color resembling grapes.
