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kaleidoscope

The origin and history of kaleidoscope.

Etymology

Coined in 1817 by Scottish scientist David Brewster from Greek kalos ("beautiful") + eidos ("shape") + "-scope" (an instrument for viewing) — literally "an instrument for viewing beautiful shapes."

Origin: Greek · First attested 1817

Class of 1817

kaleidoscope first entered the language around 1817.

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Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.