1. A patch of skin that is discoloured but not usually elevated; caused by various diseases
   "The patient presented with several red maculae on their chest";
   - macule
    
2. A small yellowish central area of the retina that is rich in cones and that mediates clear detailed vision
   "The macula lutea is responsible for our sharp, central vision";
   - macula lutea, macular area, yellow spot
    
3. A cooler darker spot appearing periodically on the sun's photosphere; associated with a strong magnetic field
   "The number of maculae varies in an 11-year cycle";
   - sunspot

Derived forms: maculae

Type of: area, dapple, fleck, maculation, patch, region, speckle, spot

Part of: cutis, retina, skin, tegument

Encyclopedia: Macula