Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
canal of Schlemm

canal of Schlemm

1 7.8
Circular channel in the eye that drains fluid into veins to keep eye pressure normal
  • noun
  • /kəˈnæl əv ʃlɛm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : canal de Schlemm
  • Fluid drains from the anterior chamber of the eye through the canal of Schlemm into the surrounding veins.

Examples

  • Doctors often examine the canal of Schlemm during eye surgeries.

  • The canal of Schlemm plays a crucial role in eye health.

  • Damage to the canal of Schlemm can contribute to the development of glaucoma.

  • Elevated eye pressure can occur when the canal of Schlemm becomes blocked or does not function properly.

  • The doctor explained that the canal of Schlemm plays a crucial role in draining fluid from the eye.

  • During the surgery, the surgeon had to access the canal of Schlemm to relieve intraocular pressure.

  • Proper function of the canal of Schlemm is essential for maintaining healthy eye pressure.

Synonyms

Schlemm's canal
vscanal of Schlemm
  • Specialized
9.2

A small circular channel in the eye that drains fluid from the front of the eye into nearby veins

is the formal noun phrase name rather than the possessive common name
sinus venosus sclerae
vscanal of Schlemm
  • Specialized
9.9

A ring-shaped channel in the eye that drains fluid into veins

is the English common name while this uses a Latin anatomical term

Surface Forms

canal of Schlemm singular
canals of Schlemm plural

Morphology

canal + of + Schlemm

The noun 'canal' clearly signals a channel or passage and 'of Schlemm' indicates an eponymous name, so a B1 learner who knows the words would infer this is a named canal. However, the specific anatomical location (eye) and its function (draining aqueous humor/regulating intraocular pressure) are not derivable from the constituents alone, so only partial understanding is possible.

Etymology

Canal of Schlemm is named after a doctor, Friedrich Schlemm, and it describes a small round canal at the front of the eye that works like a 'drain'. Because this tiny 'drain' carries eye fluid into the veins, it helps control eye 'pressure', so when it is blocked the pressure can rise and cause glaucoma.