# cataract

/ˈkætɝækt/ (US) · /kˈætɐɹˌækt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cataract
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a clouded area in the lens of your eye that makes your vision blurry. It is a common problem for older people that can be fixed with surgery.

For teachers: a clouding of the lens of the eye that affects vision. Often used in medical contexts to describe the physical opacity or the surgical procedure to remove it.

## Examples

- The doctor said my cataract is getting worse.
- While age is the primary risk factor for developing a cataract, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light and certain systemic diseases can accelerate the degeneration of the lens.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.