optical

adjective

ˈäp-ti-kəl How to pronounce optical (audio)
Definition of opticalnext
as in optic
of, relating to, or used in vision an optical illusion that fools most people

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of optical Its four-element apochromatic optical system with ED glass is designed to reduce color fringing and improve star shape and contrast. — New Atlas, 12 Nov. 2026 Sure, enthusiasts can add a larger LED light to illuminate scenes or an optical accessory viewfinder, but the Evo 2 doesn't work with external flashes. — Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 5 Nov. 2026 Among the optical gear assembled at Pico Trigaza to capture the 12 August solar eclipse was a unique instrument designed to record the distributions of iron ions in the corona [at left]. — IEEE Spectrum, 5 Nov. 2026 Karl Mayer will also demonstrate upgrades to its optical yarn monitoring and tension-control technologies. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for optical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optical
  1. optic
  2. visual
Adjective
  • Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can cause sudden vision loss, is rare, and a causal relationship has not been established.
    — Leonie Kidd, CNBC, 10 Nov. 2026
  • One example is optic neuritis, which is inflammation of the optic nerve that can interrupt electrical signals carrying visual information from the eye to the brain.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of optic
Adjective
  • Each simulation produces data on robot trajectories, contact states, and visual feedback.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 13 Nov. 2026
  • Local 600 represents more than 9,000 directors of photography, visual effects supervisors, camera operators, camera assistants, loaders, utilities, still photographers, digital imaging technicians, video controllers and publicists.
    — Erik Pedersen, Deadline, 12 Nov. 2026
Definition of visual

Phrases Containing optical

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optic
optical
optical illusion
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Cite this Entry

“Optical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/optical. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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