Distichiasis

/ˌdɪstɪkiˈeɪsɪs/ noun

Definition

A medical condition where an extra row of eyelashes grows behind the normal row, often causing eye irritation.

Etymology

From distichal (two rows) + -iasis (medical condition suffix). Medical Greek created this term to describe the doubling of eyelash rows, which shouldn't happen in healthy eyes.

Kelly Says

Some people are born with this condition, and surprisingly, some dogs (especially breeds like spaniels) commonly have distichiasis—it shows how evolution can create genetic variations that are usually harmless.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.