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spherical aberration
noun
: aberration that is caused by the spherical form of a lens or mirror and that gives different foci for central and marginal rays
Examples of spherical aberration in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Hubble was initially hobbled by an error during the 94.5-inch primary mirror's fabrication that resulted in an optical defect known as spherical aberration, preventing the telescope from bringing starlight to a sharp focus.
—William Harwood, CBS News, 4 June 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'spherical aberration.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1868, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of spherical aberration was
in 1868
Dictionary Entries Near spherical aberration
Cite this Entry
“Spherical aberration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spherical%20aberration. Accessed 20 Sep. 2024.
Medical Definition
spherical aberration
noun
spher·i·cal aberration
ˈsfir-i-kəl-, ˈsfer-
: aberration that is caused by the spherical form of a lens or mirror and that gives different foci for central and marginal rays
More from Merriam-Webster on spherical aberration
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spherical aberration
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