eye(s)
|eye|
/aɪ/
(eye)
organ of sight
Etymology
'eye' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'eage', where Proto-Germanic '*augon' reflected the Proto-Indo-European root '*okw-' meaning 'to see'.
'eye' changed from the Old English word 'eage', which came from Proto-Germanic '*augon' and ultimately from the PIE root '*okw-', and eventually became the modern English word 'eye'.
Initially it meant 'organ of sight'; over time it kept that primary meaning while also developing extended senses such as 'small opening' (e.g. 'eye of a needle') and 'center' (e.g. 'eye of the storm').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the organ of sight; the part of the body that detects light and allows vision.
She closed one eye to aim more accurately.
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Noun 2
a small hole or opening (for example, the eye of a needle or the eye of a storm).
Thread the string through the eye of the needle.
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Noun 3
attention or observation; being watched or noticed (as in 'keep an eye on').
Can you keep an eye on the baby while I cook?
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Verb 1
to look at or observe closely; to watch someone or something.
He eyed the painting for several minutes.
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Verb 2
to look with interest or desire; to covet (informal).
She eyed the new laptop on the shelf.
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Adjective 1
used after a noun to describe a type or attribute of eye (as in 'blue-eyed').
They welcomed the blue-eyed baby into the family.
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/09/26 18:16