Pupil

Definition

The term "pupil" can refer to a student in a school or an individual under the guidance of a teacher. Additionally, it describes the dark circular opening in the center of the eye that controls the amount of light entering the retina.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (student): /ˈpjuː.pəl/
• IPA Pronunciation (eye): /ˈpjuː.pəl/
• Respelling: PYOO-puhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (student): /ˈpjuː.pɪl/
• IPA Pronunciation (eye): /ˈpjuː.pɪl/
• Respelling: PYOO-pil

Etymology

The word "pupil" originates from the Latin "pupillus," meaning "orphan" or "ward," and "pupilla," referring to the small reflection seen in the eye. It entered Middle English through Old French "pupille," with its dual meanings evolving over time.

Derivatives

• Pupillary (adjective)
• Pupillage (noun)
• Pupilship (noun)
• Pupillarity (noun, rare)
• Pupillometer (noun)

Synonyms

• Student
• Disciple
• Scholar

Antonyms

• Teacher
• Instructor
• Mentor

Usage

The noun "pupil" is commonly used in educational and anatomical contexts. For example: "The teacher praised the pupil for their hard work," or "The pupil dilates in response to dim light."

Related Terms

• Eye: The organ of vision.
• Mentor: A person who provides guidance to a student.
• Lens: A transparent structure in the eye that focuses light.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A student under the guidance of a teacher: Refers to someone learning in a school or under a tutor's direction.
  • Example: "The pupil excelled in mathematics."
• The dark circular opening in the center of the eye: Refers to the anatomical part that regulates the amount of light entering the eye.
  • Example: "The doctor checked the patient’s pupil for signs of dilation."