snow blindness

noun

: inflammation and photophobia caused by exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet rays reflected from snow or ice

Examples of snow blindness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The technology has certainly come a long way from when Inuit hunter-gatherers used to wear caribou antlers carved with thin slits in order to prevent snow blindness. Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 21 Feb. 2025 For anyone who’s been lucky enough not to experience it, snow blindness—technically called ultraviolet (UV) keratitis—happens when your corneas are exposed to too much ultraviolet light, which reflects off snow. Kristin Canning, SELF, 6 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1748, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of snow blindness was in 1748

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Cite this Entry

“Snow blindness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/snow%20blindness. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

snow blindness

noun
: inflammation and inability to stand light caused by glare reflected from snow or ice

Medical Definition

snow blindness

noun
: inflammation and photophobia caused by exposure of the eyes to ultraviolet rays reflected from snow or ice
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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