Lens

Pronunciation: /lenz/

Category: Anatomy

Singular: Lens

Plural: Lenses

Definition

A structure in the eyes of insects and arachnids that focuses light, often involving multiple lenses in compound eyes that collectively aid vision.

Etymology

From Latin 'lens', meaning 'lentil', due to the similarity in shape.

Example

The compound eyes of a dragonfly contain thousands of individual lenses that provide a wide field of view.

Synonyms

Ocular lens

Related Terms

Compound eye
Ommatidium
Retina
Vision

Usage Notes

Insects and arachnids often have compound eyes, which consist of multiple lenses known as ommatidia, each contributing to a part of the visual picture.