defocus

[ dee-foh-kuhs ]

verb (used with object)

, de·fo·cused, de·fo·cus·ing or (especially British) de·fo·cussed, de·fo·cus·sing.

1. to cause loss of focus of:

   The slightest movement will defocus the microscope.

2. to interrupt or disturb (concentration, attention, etc.).
3. to disturb the concentration or awareness of (someone).

verb (used without object)

, de·fo·cused, de·fo·cus·ing or (especially British) de·fo·cussed, de·fo·cus·sing.

1. to lose or go out of focus.
2. to lose concentration or awareness; become distracted.

noun

, plural de·fo·cus·es.

1. the result of defocusing, as a blurred photographic image.

Word History and Origins

Origin of defocus¹

First recorded in 1930–35; de- + focus