reading glasses

plural noun

: eyeglasses used for reading or close work
… each button on the phone has one large number and three tiny letters squeezed about it so you have to squint real hard, especially if you don't have your reading glasses on.Dennis Baron

Examples of reading glasses in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Plus, pick up these stylish Peepers reading glasses for less than $15. Clara McMahon, People.com, 8 July 2025 The first two years in the eyewear business showed trio that there was also untapped potential in the more traditional market of reading glasses. Simone Melvin, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025 President Donald Trump was spotted wearing reading glasses in his motorcade over the weekend, a rare sighting of the president who reportedly avoids using them in public. Isabel Van Brugen, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025 The tables also have two large drawers—ideal for storing books, reading glasses, or television remotes. Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2025 The Coachella Valley Independent reported that Jones had fallen ill ahead of the show's opening and had to rely on his script — and reading glasses — to get through the performance. Jessica Sager, People.com, 1 June 2025 Her jet-black hair is piled up high, and her face is framed by oversize reading glasses. Stephen Rodrick, Rolling Stone, 18 May 2025 Pleakley notably dressed in women's clothes, though his one eye was blatantly visible behind reading glasses. Nick Romano, EW.com, 9 May 2025 If your grandma loves scrolling social media or looking up new recipes on her tablet, give her eyes a break with these blue light reading glasses. Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 6 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reading glasses was in 1853

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Cite this Entry

“Reading glasses.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reading%20glasses. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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