Monocular: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is generally used to refer to a single eye optical device, often compact and used for viewing distant objects with one eye.

• While hiking, she always carries a monocular to watch birds and scenery from a distance

Used to describe a more complex optical instrument used by astronomers or hobbyists to observe distant celestial objects such as stars, planets, and galaxies.

• He spent hours each night with his telescope, marveling at the wonders of the universe

This term is often associated with a small handheld telescope, historically used by sailors and pirates. It has a romantic, historical connotation.

• The pirate pulled out his spyglass to check for approaching ships on the horizon

Commonly used in the context of firearms or surveying equipment, a scope refers to an optical instrument that helps in aiming or viewing distant objects accurately.

• The hunter adjusted the scope on his rifle to get a better aim at the deer

This word is repeated, which seems to be an error. The usage remains the same as previously described.

• He used a monocular microscope for his experiments.
• Monocular vision can make depth perception challenging.

Describing a person or animal with only one functional eye, often with a slightly negative or pitying implication.

• The one-eyed cat roamed the streets searching for food.
• He became one-eyed after the accident.

Less common, mainly emphasizing the singularity of one eye, often used poetically or in descriptive narratives.

• The single-eyed giant towered above the terrified villagers.
• In his single-eyed gaze, one could see a lifetime of stories.