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haw

haw

9.9
A thin protective third eyelid in the inner corner of an eye
  • noun
  • /hɔ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : membrana nictitante
  • She gently pulled down the eyelid to check the haw after the accident.

Examples

  • The veterinarian examined the horse's haw for signs of infection.

  • The horse blinked, revealing its haw.

  • If the haw becomes inflamed, it can cause discomfort and vision problems.

  • I noticed the haw in the horse's eye.

  • The vet explained that the horse's haw helps protect its eyes from debris during rides.

  • After she noticed the horse squinting, the trainer checked its haw for any signs of irritation.

  • The haw in horses serves as a protective barrier, ensuring their eyesight remains clear.

Synonyms

nictitating membrane
vshaw
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A thin transparent third eyelid that protects and keeps the eye wet

refers specifically to that structure in horses at the eye inner corner

Compounds

9.2

A small tree or bush with white flowers and dark blue edible berries often grown in gardens

downy haw
  • Specialized
9.9

A small tree with red berries and soft hairy leaves and stems

red haw
  • US
8.3

A North American tree with bright red berries and groups of pink flowers

9.9

A small tree with leaves cut like parsley that makes red berries and grows in the southern United States

9.9

A small tree with few thorns that has pear-shaped berries

9.9

A shrub that loses its leaves in winter and has bright red berries that attract birds

9.9

A small tree or shrub with white flowers and bright orange-red berries

9.9

A tree that makes small red sour fruit used to make jelly

Surface Forms

haw singular
haws plural

Etymology

Haw for the eye part names the small, protective membrane in the inner corner; a helpful way to remember it is to think of a little 'hood' or 'cover' that shields the eye, which is why a haw protects the eye.