apple of the eye en · NOUN
Pronunciation
- /ˈæp.əl.əv.ðiˈaɪ/ (US)
- (US) audio
Etymology
From Middle English appel of the eyȝe, appel of þe ye, perhaps dissimilated from Middle English ij appel (literally “eye-apple”). More at eye-apple.
Meanings
- The pupil, or pupil and iris, of the eye, originally believed to be spherical; also, the eyeball.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| apples of the eye | Number=Plur | lexicographic |