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 Architecture designed to break GPU cluster limits Biren believes the future of large-scale AI computing depends on replacing conventional electrical interconnects with optical technology. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 18 July 2026 The same concern applies to optical surfaces, such as eyeglasses and camera lenses. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 15 July 2026 Flock uses optical character recognition to identify numbers and letters on license plates. — Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 15 July 2026 That would mean its offerings would cater to small businesses and restaurants, and amenities like the bakery, food court, optical center and pharmacy would be nixed. — Kansas City Star, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for optical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for optical
  1. optic
  2. visual
Adjective
  • No area of the brain was spared from the shrinkage, but the change was especially pronounced in the optic lobes and the optic tract—the bundles of nerves that carry visual signals to the brain—with reductions of 52% and 62% respectively.
    — Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 9 July 2026
  • And to prevent knock-offs, the collectible will feature the company’s new authentication packaging via its partnership with Octane5 and use micro-optic technology.
    — Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 23 June 2026
Definition of optic
Adjective
  • Nolan's non-linear storytelling and minimal exposition challenge some, yet the visual grandeur and powerful performances, including Anne Hathaway's Penelope and a diverse ensemble, are undeniable.
    — Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026
  • Aside from locomotion, scientists can equip the cockroaches to attain various other functions such as detection, localization, tracking, visual mapping, and data collection.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 18 July 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 19 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on optical

Nglish: Translation of optical for Spanish Speakers

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