optical illusion

noun

1. illusion4

optical illusion

noun

1. an object causing a false visual impression
2. an instance of deception by such an object

Word History and Origins

Origin of optical illusion¹

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun and Mercury retrograde is an optical illusion which occurs three or four times a year, making the planet appear to move in the opposite direction than it usually does.

From BBC

Is a rat hole the same as an optical illusion deemed to be a holy image?

From Slate

Due to the low angle of the Sun's rays, this can appear an optical illusion, as the pink wavelengths light up the base of the cloud.

From BBC

A photo of Dodger Stadium seemingly marooned by floodwater as Tropical Storm Hilary ripped through Southern California was, in fact, an optical illusion.

From New York Times

"The sun shining behind the observer projects their shadow through the mist, while the magnification of the shadow is an optical illusion which makes the shadow on nearby clouds seem at the same distance at faraway landmarks seen through the cloud."

From BBC