eye
eye Lexical Profile
eye Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Either of the two globular organs of sight located in sockets of the skull in humans and other vertebrates, which detect light and convert it into electro-chemical impulses in neurons.
"The optometrist examined her left eye to check for signs of retinal strain."
The faculty of visual perception, keen observation, or aesthetic discernment and appreciation.
"As an experienced interior designer, she has an exceptional eye for color harmony and spatial balance."
A small hole, loop, or aperture resembling an organ of sight, especially the hole at the blunt end of a sewing needle through which thread is passed, or a metal loop that receives a hook.
"In the dim light, he struggled to pass the fine silk thread through the eye of the needle."
A roughly circular region of comparatively calm, clear weather and low atmospheric pressure at the center of a tropical cyclone or hurricane.
"Meteorological satellites tracked the eye of the hurricane as it approached the southern coastline."
An axillary bud embedded on a potato or other tuber from which a new shoot or stem can sprout.
"Before boiling the potatoes, the chef used the tip of a paring knife to remove every dark eye."
• verb
To look at or watch closely, attentively, or with suspicion, curiosity, or desire.
"The golden retriever sat quietly beside the dining table, eying the roast chicken on the platter."
To consider or contemplate acquiring, achieving, or pursuing (a prospective goal, purchase, or opportunity).
"The technology conglomerate is currently eying several smaller software startups for potential acquisition."
Word Nuance & Usage
The present participle of the verb is may be spelled either "eying" or "eyeing", with both forms accepted in standard English. Avoid confusing "eye" with its common homophones "I" (the first-person singular pronoun) and "aye" (an affirmative vote or response).
• Rhymes for eye
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English ēage, derived from Proto-Germanic *augō and ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root *okw- meaning "to see," which also gave rise to the Latin oculus.