dark adaptation
noun Ophthalmology.
the reflex adaptation of the eye to dim light, consisting of a dilatation of the pupil and an increase in the number of functioning rods accompanied by a decrease in the number of functioning cones (opposed to light adaptation).
Origin of dark adaptation
First recorded in 1905–10
OTHER WORDS FROM dark adaptation
dark-a·dapt·ed, adjectiveWords nearby dark adaptation
darius i,
darius ii,
darius iii,
darjeeling,
dark,
dark adaptation,
dark ages,
dark chocolate,
dark cloud,
dark comedy,
dark continent
Medical definitions for dark adaptation
dark adaptation
[ därk ]
n.
The adjustment of the eye under reduced illumination, in which sensitivity to light is greatly increased.
scotopic adaptation