reflector

noun

re·​flec·​tor ri-ˈflek-tər How to pronounce reflector (audio)
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
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.
The mission is meant to be the first step in the company's ambitious plan to operate a constellation of more than 4,000 solar reflectors to boost solar power production in twilight hours on Earth. Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 21 Oct. 2025 At an altitude of 625 kilometers, an 18-meter reflector — even if optimally curved to focus that light down onto the Earth’s surface — would create a spot of light just-under 6 km across on Earth’s surface. Big Think, 15 Oct. 2025 The reflector shield’s diameter is just less than 32 inches, and the hottest areas are typically within a few feet of the base. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 29 Sep. 2025 With the idea that the Mofate X Hike is built to mega-mile into remote spaces where even a simple injury could turn into a life-threatening disaster in a blink, the boot becomes Hoka's first to incorporate a Recco reflector. New Atlas, 21 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reflector

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reflector was in 1665

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Cite this Entry

“Reflector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reflector. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

reflector

noun
re·​flec·​tor ri-ˈflek-tər How to pronounce reflector (audio)
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 How to pronounce reflector (audio)
: one that reflects
especially : a polished surface for reflecting light or other radiation
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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