What does optometrical mean?
Optometrical means relating to optometry, the professional measurement and assessment of vision. The term is commonly associated with the examination and determination of refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, so that corrective lenses may be prescribed. In specialist and technical writing, optometrical measurements may include information about the eye's focusing ability, visual acuity, and the prescription required for spectacles or contact lenses. Although the adjective can relate generally to the work of optometrists, it frequently has the narrower implication of measurement rather than medical treatment of eye disease. Both British and American English use optometrical, though optometric is generally more idiomatic in modern English. The related noun optometry names the field, while optometrist denotes the professional who conducts eye examinations and prescribes lenses.
adjectiveRelating to optometry or the measurement of vision. It is especially used of the examination and measurement of the eye's refractive errors.
- Relating to optometry or the professional measurement of vision.
- Relating to the determination of the eye's refractive state through measurement and examination.
"The optometrical measurements revealed a slight change in the patient's prescription."
"The optometrical examination produced results consistent with the patient's existing prescription."
"A comparison of the optometrical records showed that her vision had changed over time."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does optometrical come from?
Optometrical was formed from optometry with the adjective suffix -al. Optometry ultimately draws on Latin opticus, meaning “of or relating to sight,” which was borrowed from Greek optikos, likewise connected with opsis, “sight” or “appearance.” Related English words include optics, optic, and optical, all of which share the same Latin and Greek foundation.
Related word forms
How optometrical is actually used
The adjective is formal and less common in contemporary usage than the shorter and more frequent optometric. It is especially associated with written and technical contexts rather than everyday speech.
Easily confused with optometrical
Optical relates broadly to vision or optics, while optometrical more specifically relates to the professional measurement and correction of vision.
Ophthalmic concerns the eye and its diseases more generally, whereas optometrical specifically concerns the measurement of vision.