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Kaleidoscope: meaning, definitions and examples

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kaleidoscope

 

[ kəˈlaɪdəˌskoʊp ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

optical device

A kaleidoscope is a tube-shaped optical device that contains loose colored objects, such as beads or glass, which create beautiful and changing patterns when viewed through an eyehole. It is primarily used for entertainment and artistic purposes, showcasing colorful visuals that change with the movement of the device.

Synonyms

multicolored viewer, optical illusion device

Examples of usage

  • She looked through the kaleidoscope and was amazed by the vibrant patterns.
  • The children enjoyed playing with the kaleidoscope at the science exhibit.
  • Artists often use kaleidoscopes for inspiration in their designs.

Translations

Translations of the word "kaleidoscope" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caleidoscópio

🇮🇳 कलेडियोस्कोप

🇩🇪 Kaleidoskop

🇮🇩 kaleidoskop

🇺🇦 калейдоскоп

🇵🇱 kalejdoskop

🇯🇵 万華鏡

🇫🇷 kaléidoscope

🇪🇸 caleidoscopio

🇹🇷 kaleidoskop

🇰🇷 만화경

🇸🇦 كاليدوسكوب

🇨🇿 kaleidoskop

🇸🇰 kaleidoskop

🇨🇳 万花筒

🇸🇮 kaleidoskop

🇮🇸 kaleidoskóp

🇰🇿 калейдоскоп

🇬🇪 კალეიდოსკოპი

🇦🇿 kaleidoskop

🇲🇽 caleidoscopio

Word origin

The word 'kaleidoscope' is derived from the Greek words 'kalos,' meaning 'beautiful,' 'eidos,' meaning 'form,' and 'skopein,' meaning 'to look at' or 'to examine.' It was coined in the early 19th century by the Scottish inventor Sir David Brewster, who created the first working kaleidoscope in 1816. Initially, it was intended as a scientific instrument to study the patterns formed by light reflecting off objects, but it quickly gained popularity as a toy due to its mesmerizing effects. Since then, the kaleidoscope has evolved into an artistic tool, as well as an instrument frequently used in various art forms and educational contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,468, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.