What does the term "Cilia" refer to in ophthalmology?

In ophthalmology, the term "cilia" specifically refers to eyelashes. The eyelashes play a crucial role in protecting the eyes from debris, dust, and other foreign particles. Additionally, they serve as a sensory mechanism; when something comes close to the eye, the eyelashes cause a reflexive blink to protect the eye from potential injury. This protective function is essential for maintaining the health and safety of the eyes.

While the other options include structures related to the eye area—such as eyebrows, eyelids, and eye lenses—they do not accurately capture the definition of "cilia." Eyebrows help in directing moisture away from the eyes and provide expression, eyelids serve as a protective barrier and help to keep the eye moist, and eye lenses relate to vision but do not pertain to the term “cilia.” Thus, understanding that "cilia" denotes eyelashes is important for comprehending its role in ocular health.