Prism

/ˈpɹɪz(ə)m/ · noun

Meaning

(geometry) A polyhedron with parallel ends of the same polygonal shape and size, the other faces being parallelogram-shaped sides..

Definitions by Sense

1. (geometry) A polyhedron with parallel ends of the same polygonal shape and size, the other faces being parallelogram-shaped sides.
2. (by extension, surveying) A retroreflector (“device which reflects light back to its source with minimal scattering”) which is usually attached to a surveying pole as a target for a total station which emits a light beam at the device and calculates how long it takes to be reflected back in order to measure distance.
3. (figurative) A perspective that colours one's perception.

Example Sentences

I had surveyed the landscape through the prism of poetry, which tinged every object with the hues of the rainbow.

It is a simple fact that many outside the Abu Dhabi-owned club will always view their triumph through the prism of the charges of 115 financial breaches brought against them by the Premier League, charges they fiercely deny.

Synonyms for prism

Antonyms for prism

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• prisms

Usage Notes

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