reflector

noun

re·​flec·​tor ri-ˈflek-tər 

1

: one that reflects

especially : a polished surface for reflecting light or other radiation

2

: a telescope in which the principal focusing element is a mirror

Examples of reflector in a Sentence

safety devices such as bicycle reflectors

Reflectors are placed along the lanes of the highway.

Recent Examples on the Web

That includes a sturdy scraper or snow brush, a flashlight with extra batteries, blankets or a sleeping bag, water jugs, a first aid kit and essential medications, tire chains, a tow strap, jumper cables, reflectors and a battery radio. —Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 3 Dec. 2025

Other technical features to look out for include powder skirts, adjustable hems and hoods, wrist gaiters, goggle shammies, RFID pockets, and Recco reflectors. —Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 26 Nov. 2025

That means if riding within 30 minutes of sunrise or sunset, scooters need to have a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back, both visible from 500 feet away. —Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 22 Nov. 2025

These telescopes are ready to use right out of the box, and there is no need to collimate a mirror, which is often out of alignment in reflectors. —Anthony Wood, Space.com, 15 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for reflector

• bisector
• collector
• connector
• corrector
• defector
• deflector
• detector
• director
• dissector
• effector
• ejector
• elector

Kids Definition

reflector

noun

re·​flec·​tor ri-ˈflek-tər 

1

: one that reflects

especially : a polished surface for reflecting light or heat

2

: a telescope in which the principal light-gathering element is a mirror

Medical Definition

reflector

noun

re·​flec·​tor ri-ˈflek-tər 

: one that reflects

especially : a polished surface for reflecting light or other radiation