Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Ophthalmia /(ŏf*thăl"mĭ*ȧ)/ · Oph·thal·mi·a · IPA /ɑpˈθælmiə/ 01 n. An inflammation of the membranes or coats of the eye or of the eyeball. 1. An inflammation of the membranes or coats of the eye or of the eyeball.(Med.) Syn. ophthalmitis.