keratitis

noun

ker·​a·​ti·​tis ˌker-ə-ˈtī-təs 

plural keratitides ˌker-ə-ˈti-tə-ˌdēz 

: inflammation of the cornea of the eye

Examples of keratitis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

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

Fungus can cause either keratitis—an infection of the outer layer of the eye—or endophthalmitis, an inner eye infection. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024

More serious complications can arise if the virus spreads to the eyes, leading to a condition called herpes simplex keratitis, which can cause blurred vision and even permanent damage if left untreated. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024

This can lead to serious eye infections like keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea caused by bacteria or fungi. —Alyssa Hui-Anderson, Verywell Health, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably borrowed from French kératite, from Greek kerat-, kéras "horn" + French -ite -itis — more at kerato-

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

keratitis

noun

ker·​a·​ti·​tis ˌker-ə-ˈtīt-əs 

plural keratitides -ˈtit-ə-ˌdēz 

: inflammation of the cornea of the eye characterized by burning or smarting, blurring of vision, and sensitiveness to light and caused by infectious or noninfectious agents

called also corneitis

compare keratoconjunctivitis