1. miosis(n = noun.process) meiosis, reduction division - (genetics) cell division that produces reproductive cells in sexually reproducing organisms; the nucleus divides into four nuclei each containing half the chromosome number (leading to gametes in animals and spores in plants);
is a kind of cell division, cellular division
has parts: anaphase, cytokinesis, karyokinesis, metaphase, prophase, segregation, telophase
has particulars: nondisjunction
2. miosis(n = noun.act) light reflex, myosis, pupillary reflex - reflex contraction of the sphincter muscle of the iris in response to a bright light (or certain drugs) causing the pupil to become smaller;
is a kind of inborn reflex, innate reflex, instinctive reflex, physiological reaction, reflex, reflex action, reflex response, unconditioned reflex
Derived form adjective miotic1
miosis, n. (also myosis) excessive constriction of the pupil of the eye.
Derivative:
miotic adj.
Etymology:
Gk muo shut the eyes + -OSIS