Rhodopsin
/ˌroʊˈdɒp.sɪn/noun
A light-sensitive pigment in the retina that enables vision in dim light.
Did you know?Rhodopsin was once called “visual purple,” and its name comes from Greek roots for “rose” and “appearance,” not from anything mystical—though its role in night vision has made it feel almost enchanted.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ῥόδον (rhódon)
“rose”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ὄψις (ópsis)
“sight, appearance”
19th Century
German/Scientific Latin
Rhodopsin
“a purple retinal pigment associated with vision”
Modern English
English
rhodopsin
“the light-sensitive pigment in rod cells of the retina”
Explore more surprising origins