Fresnel lens

noun

Fres·​nel lens ˈfrez-nəl- How to pronounce Fresnel lens (audio) frā-ˈnel- How to pronounce Fresnel lens (audio)
: a lens that has a surface consisting of a concentric series of simple lens sections so that a thin lens with a short focal length and large diameter is possible and that is used especially for spotlights

Word History

Etymology

Augustin J. Fresnel

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Fresnel lens was in 1865

Dictionary Entries Near Fresnel lens

Cite this Entry

“Fresnel lens.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Fresnel%20lens. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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