What does albino mean Meaning and Definition
What does albino mean
Pronunciation
/ælˈbaɪnoʊ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A congenital condition characterized by a complete or partial lack of melanin production, resulting in an absence of pigmentation in the skin, hair, and eyes.
Examples
- People with albinism often have vision impairments.
- The doctor diagnosed the patient with ocular albinism.
Synonyms
- Albinism
- Leucism
Antonyms
- Pigmentation
- Melanin
Additional Information
Albinism affects approximately 1 in 18,000 to 1 in 50,000 people worldwide, and it can occur in any ethnicity. Albinism can also affect animals, including birds, fish, and mammals. In humans, albinism can cause a range of health issues, including vision problems, skin sensitivity, and increased risk of skin cancer.
There are different types of albinism, including oculocutaneous albinism, ocular albinism, and Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome. Each type has distinct characteristics and affects different aspects of the body.
Etymology
The term “albino” comes from the Latin word “albus,” meaning “white.”
Usage Notes
When referring to people with albinism, it is important to use respectful language and avoid insensitive or offensive terms. Instead of saying “albino person,” use “person with albinism” or “individual with albinism.”
Cultural References
Albinism has been featured in various forms of media, including films, books, and TV shows. One notable example is the character of albino assassin, Ra’s al Ghul, from the Batman comics and movies.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “albino.”
Related Words or Phrases
- Albinism
- Pigmentation disorder
Collocations
- albino animal
- albino person
Frequency of Use
The term “albino” is relatively rare in modern language, but it is used in medical and scientific contexts to describe the condition of albinism.
Common Misspellings
- Albinoe
- Albinio