afterimage: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

In modern standard English, especially American English, it is one word ('afterimage'). British English may occasionally use the hyphenated form ('after-image'), but the closed form is dominant.

A positive afterimage retains the same colours and brightness as the original. A negative afterimage appears in complementary colours (e.g., seeing a red shape after staring at a green one).

Technically, it is a visual phenomenon. However, it is sometimes used metaphorically for persistent impressions in other senses (e.g., 'the afterimage of a melody'), though terms like 'aftereffect' or 'echo' are more standard for non-visual senses.

Brief afterimages are a normal function of the retina and visual system. However, persistent or unusually long-lasting afterimages, especially without a bright stimulus, can be a symptom of certain eye conditions and should be checked by a professional.

A visual impression that remains after the original stimulus causing it has ceased.

Afterimage is usually technical, academic, literary in register.

Afterimage: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɑːftərɪmɪdʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæftərɪmɪdʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.