Monocular: meaning, definitions and examples

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monocular

[məˈnɒkjʊlə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

vision

A monocular is a small, lightweight telescope used for viewing distant objects with one eye. It is commonly used for activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and hunting.

Synonyms

scope, spyglass, telescope.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
monocular	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
telescope	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
spyglass	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
scope	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

Examples of usage

I always carry a monocular with me when I go birdwatching.
The hunter spotted the deer through his monocular from a distance.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

medical

In the medical field, monocular refers to the ability to see with only one eye. It may result from eye conditions, injuries, or surgeries.

Synonyms

one-eyed, single-eyed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
monocular	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.
one-eyed	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.
single-eyed	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.

Word

Description / Examples

monocular

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.

one-eyed

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.

single-eyed

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.

Examples of usage

The patient has monocular vision due to a previous injury.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'monos' meaning 'one' and 'oculus' meaning 'eye'.
First recorded use of the term dates back to the early 19th century, indicating its origins in optics.

Science

Monoculars work by using a single lens to magnify images, much like binoculars but for one eye.
They are often lighter and more portable than binoculars, making them ideal for hikers or bird watchers.

History

In the 1600s, early versions of monoculars were used by astronomers to observe celestial bodies.
Famous figures like Galileo utilized monocular telescopes for revolutionary discoveries in astronomy.

Pop Culture

In many adventure movies, characters often use monoculars to scout distant locations or look for treasures.
Monoculars are popular among sports fans who want a closer view of the action from the stands.

Applications

They are used in fields like wildlife observation, forensics, and even in the military for reconnaissance.
Monoculars are helpful in archery or shooting sports, as they let users focus on far-off targets with one eye.

Translations

Translations of the word "monocular" in other languages:

🇵🇹 monocular

🇮🇳 एकनेत्री

🇩🇪 Monokular

🇮🇩 monokuler

🇺🇦 монокуляр

🇵🇱 monokular

🇯🇵 単眼鏡 (たんがんきょう)

🇫🇷 monoculaire

🇪🇸 monocular

🇹🇷 monoküler

🇰🇷 단안경 (단안경)

🇸🇦 أحادي العدسة

🇨🇿 monokulár

🇸🇰 monokulár

🇨🇳 单筒望远镜 (dān tǒng wàng yuǎn jìng)

🇸🇮 monokular

🇮🇸 einhólfs sjónauki

🇰🇿 монокуляр

🇬🇪 მონოკულარი

🇦🇿 monokulyar

🇲🇽 monocular

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,033, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
28030 raved
28031 pouting
28032 unconcern
28033 monocular
28034 encouragingly
28035 irruption
28036 diatonic
...