1. The point in the brain where the two optic nerves cross, located at the base of the hypothalamus.
Usage: anatomy; also called optic chiasm or chiasma
2. A crossing or intersection of two structures, especially in anatomy or biology.
Usage: general anatomy; less common than the optic nerve sense

Examples

• Damage to the chiasm can result in vision problems affecting both eyes.
• The optic chiasm is where nerve fibers from each eye partially cross to the opposite side of the brain.
• Medical imaging revealed a tumor pressing on the patient's chiasm.
• During the anatomy lecture, the professor pointed out the chiasm on the brain model.
• The chiasm's location makes it vulnerable to compression from nearby pituitary gland tumors.