aplanatic

[ ap-luh-nat-ik ]

adjective

, Optics.

1. free from spherical aberration and coma.

aplanatic

/ ˌæpləˈnætɪk /

adjective

1. (of a lens or mirror) free from spherical aberration

Derived Forms

• ˌaplaˈnatically, adverb

Other Words From

• apla·nati·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of aplanatic¹

1785–95; a- ⁶ + Greek planá ( ein ) to wander + -tic. See planet

Word History and Origins

Origin of aplanatic¹

C18: from Greek aplanētos prevented from wandering, from a- ¹+ planētos, from planaein to wander

Example Sentences

The aplanatic triplets after Steinheil are remarkable for their large, flat field and excellent definition, free from chromatic aberration.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Orguly Bolp's large painting, entitled "Embrocation," is an interesting experiment in the handling of aplanatic surfaces, in which the toxic determinants are harmonized by a sort of plastic meiosis with syncopated rhythms.

From Project Gutenberg

"Thank you; I have a pretty good one of my own," Tom answered, diving into one of his pockets and bringing to light a small but powerful reading glass with an aplanatic lens.

From Project Gutenberg

"Kipper on toast" is not nearly so rich in carbohydrates, calories and aplanatic amygdaloids as "Kipper meat."

From Project Gutenberg

It was thought that the use of this Herschel aplanatic combination as an eyepiece, combined with the Wollaston doublet for the objective, came as near perfection as the compound microscope was likely soon to come.

From Project Gutenberg