The story
From xero- + ophthalmia.
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Today it means: A condition due to a deficiency of vitamin A where the conjunctiva and cornea become dry. The condition starts with conjunctival xerosis and night blindness and progresses to corneal xerosis and, later, a severe condition called keratomalacia. Full definition →
From xero- + ophthalmia.
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.