optic axis

noun

: a line in a doubly refracting medium that is parallel to the direction in which all components of plane-polarized light travel with the same speed

Word History

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of optic axis was in 1664

Dictionary Entries Near optic axis

Cite this Entry

“Optic axis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/optic%20axis. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

optic axis

noun

More from Merriam-Webster on optic axis

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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