schisto-, schist-, schis-, -schisia, -scisis

1. Degeneration of the retina causing splitting and the formation of cysts between retinal layers.
2. Degenerative splitting of the retina into separate layers

1. A separation, split, or division between strongly opposed parties or individuals caused by differences of opinion or beliefs: There appears to be a schism among members of the political party because they can't seem to agree on who should be nominated for the next election.

The local church was divided by a schism about whether women should be allowed to become ministers or preachers.

2. Etymology: from Middle English and then from Old French schisme via church Latin from Greek skhisma, "cleft, split"; from skhizein, "to split". © ALL rights are reserved.

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An opening or scissure present since birth: When little Susi was born, the schistasis under her nose had to be operated on so as to grow as normally as possible.