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Optical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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optical

[ˈɒptɪkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

science

Relating to sight or vision; visual.

Synonyms

sight-related, visual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
optical

Used in scientific or technical contexts related to the behavior and properties of light or vision.

  • The new optical device greatly improves vision.
  • He is researching optical phenomena in his physics class.
visual

Used more broadly to describe anything related to seeing or the sense of sight, like visual arts or visual effects in movies.

  • The movie's visual effects were breathtaking.
  • She has a great visual memory.
sight-related

Used to specifically denote things directly connected to the ability to see, often in a medical or biological context.

  • The patient has a sight-related impairment.
  • Sight-related issues should be addressed promptly.

Examples of usage

  • The optical nerve is responsible for transmitting signals from the eye to the brain.
  • Optical illusions can trick the brain into seeing things that are not there.
Context #2 | Adjective

technology

Relating to the use of light in technology, such as optical fibers.

Synonyms

light-based, luminous.

Examples of usage

  • Optical devices like telescopes and microscopes use lenses to manipulate light.
  • Fiber-optic cables use optical technology to transmit data at high speeds.
Context #3 | Noun

technology

A device or technology that uses light to perform a function.

Synonyms

laser technology, light-based device.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
optical

Can also be used to refer to aesthetic clarity or visual perfection in a more figurative sense.

  • The optical clarity of the glass was astonishing.
  • His optical alignment of the paintings was impressive.
light-based device

Used when describing a device that operates using any form of light, including but not limited to lasers. Suitable for general technology discussions.

  • The new security system utilizes a light-based device to detect intruders.
  • Light-based devices are being increasingly used in various fields, from medical to entertainment.
laser technology

Specific to systems and devices that utilize lasers. Common in discussions about precise cutting, medical equipment, and communication technology.

  • Laser technology has drastically improved the accuracy of surgical procedures.
  • This company specializes in advanced laser technology for industrial applications.

Examples of usage

  • An optical mouse uses light to track movement on a surface.
  • Optical character recognition converts printed text into digital data using light.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'optical'

The word 'optical' originates from the Greek word 'optikos', meaning 'of or having to do with sight'. The study of optics, which deals with the behavior of light and its interactions with matter, has a long history dating back to ancient times. The development of optical instruments like lenses, telescopes, and microscopes has greatly advanced our understanding of the world around us.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,316, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.