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Definition: iris recognition


Distinguishing the identity of people by their irises. A human iris has a unique color and pattern and can be used as a reliable identifier when illuminated with near infrared light. See facial recognition and biometrics.




The Iris
The iris is the diaphragm-like center of the eye behind the cornea and in front of the lens. Typically colored blue, green or brown, the iris opens to let light through the lens to the optic nerve.