View synonyms for focal point

focal point

noun

Also called principal focus. Optics. either of two points on the axis of a mirror, lens, or other optical system, one point being such that rays diverging from it are deviated parallel to the axis upon refraction or reflection by the system and the other point being such that rays parallel to the axis of the system converge to the point upon refraction or reflection by the system.
the point at which all elements or aspects converge; center of activity or attention:
The focal point of our discussion was the need for action.
the central or principal point of focus.

focal point

Also calledprincipal focusfocus the point on the axis of a lens or mirror to which parallel rays of light converge or from which they appear to diverge after refraction or reflection
a central point of attention or interest

focal point

The point at which all radiation coming from a single direction and passing through a lens or striking a mirror converges.
Also called focus

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First recorded in 1705–15

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For us it was clear that China should be the focal point for a documentary on the subject of Internet addiction.

The Lenin statue has now become the focal point of protests for Russia, and against the ‘fascists’ in Kiev.

Perry does the opposite, creating worlds in which white people are disposable, interchangeable, and not the assumed focal point.

A moral focal point was Glen Echo Park, a wonderful art-deco playland in Maryland along the Potomac.

From Sally Draper to Arya Stark, teenage girls provide a focal point within the prestige television narrative.

Rain, therefore, is the focal point from which all their thoughts radiate.

And so, in the employ of Professor Morgan, I shifted the focal point and turned the search-light of science upon the accuser.

No teaching is worth much without enthusiasm, and enthusiasm is generated by concentrating interest at a focal point.

Awareness drifted in formless inattention until a focal point, a mere nucleus of intellect, captured and held it.

If he can cause the thinking of people to center upon a focal point, he establishes his claim to leadership.

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