Meaning & Definition of word "Cataract"

Cataract

/ˈkætərækt/

noun:

  • 1. A medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes progressively opaque, resulting in blurred vision.
    • Example: After years of struggling with blurred vision, she was diagnosed with cataracts in both eyes.
  • 2. A large waterfall or a rushing stream of water.
    • Example: The sound of the cataract could be heard from miles away as it cascaded down the mountainside.

Etymology

From Middle English cataracte, from Latin cataracta, from Greek katarrhaktēs 'down-rushing'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cataract surgery:

A surgical procedure to remove a cataract from the lens of the eye.

cataract of rain:

A sudden and intense downpour of rain.

to have cataracts:

To be afflicted by the condition of cataracts.

Related Words

lens:

A transparent structure in the eye that focuses light.

opacity:

The quality of being opaque, especially regarding the eye's lens.

ophthalmologist:

A medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.

Slang Meanings of cataract

Meaning: To see nothing clearly

Example Sentence: After the party, my head felt like a cataract – everything was blurry.

Meaning: A sudden overwhelming force

Example Sentence: The news hit me like a cataract, I couldn't process it at first.