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| ta·pe·tum [ tə ptəm ] (plural ta·pe·ta [ tə ptə ]) |
noun |
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| Definition: |
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1. layer of cells: a specialized membrane or layer of cells
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2. reflective layer in eye: a layer of cells in the wall of the eye of nocturnal and deep-sea animals that reflects light back onto the retina, enhancing visual sensitivity in dim light. Light reflected by this layer is responsible for the shining eyes of cats seen when they are illuminated at night.
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| [Early 18th century. < late Latin< Latin tapete< Greek tapēt-] |
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 ta·pe·tal adjective |
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