Saccade

/sæˈkɑːd/ noun

Definition

A rapid movement of the eye between fixation points; the quick jumps your eyes make as they scan a scene or read text.

Etymology

From French 'saccade' (a jerk/twitch), from 'saquer' (to pull). Your eyes don't move smoothly — they JUMP from point to point, and your brain fills in the gaps so you never notice.

Kelly Says

Your eyes DON'T move smoothly — they JUMP like tiny kangaroos! Right now, reading this, your eyes are making rapid jumps called saccades! Your brain HIDES the jumps so you think you're seeing a smooth movie! 👀🦘

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