Cool MateOptical
UK /["/ˈɒptɪkl/"]/US /["/ˈɑːptɪkl/"]/
Definition
connected with the sense of sight or the relationship between light and sight
In simple words: Related to sight or vision.
Examples
- optical effects
- optical aids
- optical instruments such as microscopes and telescopes
- optical storage
- an optical disk/drive/mouse
Usage notes
Commonly used in scientific contexts or when discussing vision, such as 'optical illusion' or 'optical devices'. Not typically used in casual conversation.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'optical' like 'optics' — both focus on eyes and light.
Collocations
- optical illusion
- optical fiber
- optical system
- optical lens
- optical device
Synonyms
- visual
- sight-related
- eye-related
- luminous
- graphic
Antonyms
- non-optical
- nonvisual
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'optics' which refers to the study of light and vision.
- Overused in everyday language, where simpler words like 'visual' are more appropriate.