focal point

noun

Synonyms of focal pointnext

Examples of focal point in a Sentence

This port was the focal point of trade two centuries ago.
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 Goop Kitchen founder wanted the focal point of the design to be a late-18th-century Flemish tapestry, whose landscape imagery features a palette of muted greens and taupes. — Juliet Izon, Architectural Digest, 10 Nov. 2026 Proximity to a water source is emerging as another focal point for wellness-minded development. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2026 The focal point of every Remembrance Day is the Cenotaph in Whitehall, the Portland stone monument where tribute is paid to those who fell in the wars and conflicts in which the country has participated. — Amaia Odriozola, Vanity Fair, 8 Nov. 2026 In the far top left corner, a large toyon tree has become a focal point, with steps below it leading down to the flat ground. — Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for focal point

Word History

First Known Use

1692, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of focal point was in 1692

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Focal point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/focal%20point. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

focal point

noun

Medical Definition

focal point

noun

More from Merriam-Webster on focal point

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!