Meaning of "tapetum" in English

The term "tapetum" refers to a reflective layer found within the eyes of certain animals, notably in nocturnal species. It enhances their vision in low-light conditions by reflecting light back through the retina. The tapetum lucidum, as it's technically called, acts as a natural optical amplifier, significantly aiding animals such as cats, dogs, and some birds in their ability to see in the dark. This biological feature is often responsible for the distinct eye shine observed in such creatures when illuminated at night.

Meaning of "tapetum" in French

In French, "tapetum" refers to the same biological structure as in English, known as the tapetum lucidum. It is a reflective membrane located in the eyes of many vertebrates, primarily enhancing their night vision by reflecting light back through the retina. This adaptation is crucial for animals that are active in dark environments. As in English, the term can also describe some other layers or tissues beyond ocular usage, like in plants, where it refers to nutritive tissue in the anthers of flowering plants.

Pronunciation of "tapetum" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [təˈpiːtəm]

Pronunciation Variations: There are generally minor variations in pronunciation, primarily depending on the speaker's accent or regional dialect. In some cases, you might hear variations like [təˈpɛtəm].

Pronunciation of "tapetum" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [tapetɔm]

Pronunciation Variations: In French, the pronunciation remains fairly consistent across different regions, with minor variations. The emphasis usually stays on the second syllable, with a typical French pronunciation style.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The cat's tapetum allows it to hunt efficiently at night. (Le tapetum du chat lui permet de chasser efficacement la nuit.)
  2. Scientists are studying the tapetum to improve human night vision. (Les scientifiques étudient le tapetum pour améliorer la vision nocturne humaine.)
  3. The tapetum in a dog's eye reflects light, causing their eyes to glow in photos. (Le tapetum dans l'œil d'un chien reflète la lumière, faisant briller leurs yeux sur les photos.)
  4. Owls have a highly developed tapetum to aid in their nocturnal lifestyle. (Les hiboux ont un tapetum très développé pour les aider dans leur mode de vie nocturne.)
  5. Different species have varying adaptations of the tapetum. (Différentes espèces ont des adaptations variées du tapetum.)
  6. The tapetum lucidum is particularly useful for night predators. (Le tapetum lucidum est particulièrement utile pour les prédateurs nocturnes.)
  7. Despite its benefits, not all animals possess a tapetum. (Malgré ses avantages, tous les animaux ne possèdent pas de tapetum.)
  8. The study of the tapetum can provide insights into evolutionary biology. (L'étude du tapetum peut fournir des informations sur la biologie évolutive.)
  9. Fish have a tapetum that functions differently than in mammals. (Les poissons ont un tapetum qui fonctionne différemment de celui des mammifères.)
  10. Tapetum absence in humans is why we don't have glowing eyes in the dark. (L'absence de tapetum chez les humains explique pourquoi nos yeux ne brillent pas dans le noir.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "tapetum" in English

Synonyms: layer, membrane, ocular tapetum, reflective layer, eye layer, retina enhancer, lucidum, reflective tissue, eye membrane, choroid layer.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: choroid, retina, sclera, iris, cornea, vitreous, lens, optic nerve, pupil, anterior chamber.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "tapetum" in French

Synonyms: couche, membrane, nappe réfléchissante, tissu réfléchissant, couche oculaire, renforceur de rétine, lucidum, couche choroïdienne.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: choroïde, rétine, sclère, iris, cornée, vitré, cristallin, nerf optique, pupille, chambre antérieure.

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