optically active

adjective

: capable of rotating the plane of vibration of polarized light to the right or left
used of compounds, molecules, or atoms

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optically active was in 1858

Dictionary Entries Near optically active

Cite this Entry

“Optically active.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optically%20active. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

optically active

adjective
: capable of rotating the plane of vibration of polarized light to the right or left : either dextrorotatory or levorotatory
used of compounds, molecules, or atoms
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