optical

[ op-ti-kuhl ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or applying optics optics or the principles of optics.
2. constructed to assist sight or to correct defects in vision.
3. of or relating to sight or vision; visual.
4. of or relating to the eye.
5. of or relating to an optician or opticians or to their products, especially eyeglasses:

   an optical service.

6. dealing with or skilled in optics.

noun

1. opticals. optical effects.

optical

/ ˈɒptɪkəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, producing, or involving light
2. of or relating to the eye or to the sense of sight; optic
3. (esp of a lens) aiding vision or correcting a visual disorder

optical

/ ŏp′tĭ-kəl /

1. Relating to vision or the eyes.
2. Relating to optics.
3. Relating to or using visible light.

Derived Forms

• ˈoptically, adverb

Other Words From

• opti·cal·ly adverb
• non·opti·cal adjective
• non·opti·cal·ly adverb
• sub·opti·cal adjective
• sub·opti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of optical¹

First recorded in 1560–70; optic + -al ¹

Example Sentences

This computationally intensive method improves the contrast and resolution of digital images captured in optical microscopes like widefield, confocal or transmission microscopes.

From Science Daily

The researchers plan to develop the system further with the goal of creating a versatile platform for real-time pollutant monitoring and earth-space optical communications.

From Science Daily

Their components function like atoms in conventional materials but have special optical, electrical and magnetic properties.

From Science Daily

Eva Slater’s 1954 “Galaxy” insets a syncopated network of painted forms within a wooden panel, merging optical motion with material stasis.

From Los Angeles Times

With optical character recognition the plate number is compared to one or more law enforcement crime databases of vehicles of interests or “hot lists,” according to the International Assn. of Chiefs of Police.

From Los Angeles Times