opacified

Opacified is an adjective describing something that has become opaque or less transparent. The related verb opacify means to render opaque, or to cause opacity. Opacification can arise by material changes, deposition of particles, or intentional processing.

Etymology: From opacity, from Latin opacus "shaded; dark," + -fy.

Contexts in materials science and manufacturing: In glass, ceramics, and polymers, opacification is achieved by adding opacifying agents—particles that scatter light. This yields white, milky, or colored materials used for decorative, functional, or safety-related purposes. The degree of opacification is quantified by light transmittance or haze measurements.

In medicine and biology: In ophthalmology, opacification of biological lenses or corneal tissue results in reduced vision, as in cataracts or corneal scarring. In histology or imaging, tissue opacification can occur due to edema, mineral deposition, or other pathological changes that scatter light and hinder imaging or light passage.

See also: opacity and opacification.