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optic nerve
noun
: either of the second pair of cranial nerves that pass from the retina to the optic chiasma and conduct visual stimuli to the brain see eye illustration
Examples of optic nerve in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Since high intracranial pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss, the primary goal of treatment is to decrease pressure and preserve the optic nerve.
—Danielle Wilhour, Discover Magazine, 15 Aug. 2024
This condition causes increased pressure in the eye, which damages the optic nerve and causes vision loss over time.15
Supports a Healthy Digestive System
Bananas, including red bananas, are a source of fiber—a nutrient that supports digestive health.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 24 July 2024
This habit can increase the risk of AMD and cataracts and damage the optic nerve.
—Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 11 July 2024
The condition causes damage to the optic nerve, but there is often no warning before vision loss.
Changes in blood sugar levels can affect the shape of an eye’s lens and may affect vision, said Dr. Disha Narang, an endocrinologist and director of obesity medicine at Endeavor Health in Chicago.
—Deidre McPhillips, CNN, 3 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for optic nerve
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'optic nerve.' 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
1615, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near optic nerve
Cite this Entry
“Optic nerve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optic%20nerve. Accessed 20 Sep. 2024.
Kids Definition
optic nerve
noun
: either of a pair of sensory nerves that are the second pair of cranial nerves and carry visual information from the retina of the eye to the brain
Medical Definition
optic nerve
noun
: either of the pair of sensory nerves that comprise the second pair of cranial nerves, arise from the ventral part of the diencephalon, form an optic chiasma before passing to the eye and spreading over the anterior surface of the retina, and conduct visual stimuli to the brain
called also second cranial nerve
More from Merriam-Webster on optic nerve
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about optic nerve
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