Optics

/ˈɒptɪks/ · noun

Meaning

(physics) The physics of light and vision: basic optical science..

Definitions by Sense

1. (physics) The physics of light and vision: basic optical science.
2. Technology that makes use of such physics: applied optical science; business lines making use of such technology.
3. The light-related aspects of a device.
4. (figuratively) Perception, image, public relations, especially in politics.
5. plural of optic

Example Sentences

a PhD in the optics of liquid crystals

defense R&D investments in both optics and electronics

the optics of liquid crystals under certain laboratory conditions

The optics of this telescope are particularly good.

Digging deeper, the invention of eyeglasses is an elaboration of the more fundamental development of optics technology. The ability of a segment of a glass sphere to magnify whatever is placed before it was known around the year 1000, when the spherical segment was called a reading stone,[…].

Near-synonyms: appearances, spectacle, theatrics; choreography

His policy prescription was sound, but the optics of its discussion were horrible.

[…] I'd be interested to know whether US authorities proffered any "advice" on the optics: Ixnay on the torture dungeon, […]; if you have to have victims' loved ones present, go for the widows and photogenic orphans rather than Moqtada's boys.

Synonyms for optics

Antonyms for optics

Related Words

Word Forms

• opticks

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions