- of or connected with the sense of sight; visual; ocular
- of the relation between light and vision
- having to do with optics
- for aiding vision
An example of optical used as an adjective is in the phrase "optical illusion," which means an illusion that tricks the eyes.
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optical

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APA Style
optical

adjective
- Of or relating to sight; visual: an optical defect.
- Designed to assist sight: optical instruments.
- Of or relating to optics.
- Relating to or using visible light: optical astronomy.
- Using light-sensitive devices.
Related Forms:
- op′ti·cal·ly
adverb
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- Relating to vision or the eyes.
- Relating to optics.
- Relating to or using visible light.
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(comparative more optical, superlative most optical)
- Of, or relating to sight; visual
- Strabismus is an optical defect.
- Designed to assist or enhance sight
- A microscope is an optical instrument.
- Of, or relating to optics
- Refraction is an optical effect.
- Of, or relating to visible light
- Optical telescopes don't work when it is cloudy.
- Incorporating light-sensitive devices
- An optical switch opens the door automatically.
optic +"Ž -al
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optical - Computer Definition

In physics, relating to the study of light in the infrared (IR), visible, and ultraviolet (UV) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. See also electromagnetic spectrum, IR, light, UV, and visible light.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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optical - Medical Definition
adj.
- Relating to sight; visual: an optical defect.
- Designed to assist sight: optical instruments.
- Relating to optics.
- Relating to or using visible light: optical astronomy.
- Using light-sensitive devices.
Related Forms:
- op′ti·cal·ly
adv.
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APA Style
Sentence Examples
- The mistake, shown in all the old maps of Australia, had originated in a curious optical illusion.
- In length by any mirrors which can be practically constructed would be like attempting optical experiments with mirrors one-hundred-thousandth of an inch in diameter.
- His optical investigations are perhaps the subject in which he most contributed to the progress of science; and the lucidity of exposition which marks his Dioptrics stands conspicuous even amid the generally luminous style of his works.
- Malt, tinware, flour and grist-mill products, boilers, stoves and ranges, optical supplies, wall-paper, cereals, canned goods, cutlery, tin cans and wagons are manufactured, and there are also extensive nurseries.
- His researches extended to almost every branch of physical science, but his most important work was of an optical character.