noun
- A flash of light or a visual sensation produced by mechanical stimulation of the retina or visual cortex, rather than by light entering the eye.
Usage: medical/scientific term; often experienced when pressing on the eyeball or after a blow to the head
Examples
- When the boxer was hit, he saw phosphenes dancing across his vision.
- Rubbing your eyes can produce phosphenes, which appear as bright spots or patterns.
- Phosphenes are a common experience during migraines for some people.
- The neuroscientist studied phosphenes to understand how the visual system processes stimulation.
- Astronauts in space have reported seeing phosphenes caused by cosmic radiation hitting their eyes.