dark adaptation

noun

: the process including dilation of the pupil, increase in sensitivity of the retinal rods, and regeneration of rhodopsin by which the eye adapts to conditions of reduced illumination
dark-adapted adjective

Examples of dark adaptation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Avoid using your phone, as even a glance at the screen can ruin your eyes’ dark adaptation. Vahe Peroomian, The Conversation, 5 July 2023 Avoid using your phone, as even a glance at the screen can ruin your eyes' dark adaptation. Vahe Peroomian, CBS News, 5 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dark adaptation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dark adaptation was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near dark adaptation

Cite this Entry

“Dark adaptation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dark%20adaptation. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

dark adaptation

noun
: the phenomena including dilation of the pupil, increase in retinal sensitivity, shift of the region of maximum luminosity toward the blue, and regeneration of rhodopsin by which the eye adapts to conditions of reduced illumination compare light adaptation
dark-adapted adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on dark adaptation

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