adjective
Uncommon
optic
OP-tihk
Optic (adjective) means relating to the eye or to vision. Example: “The optic nerve carries signals from the eye to the brain.”
adjective
1
Relating to the eye or to vision.
"The optic nerve carries signals from the eye to the brain."
"The doctor shone a light into my eye to check the optic disc."
"Damage to the optic nerve can cause permanent loss of sight."
noun
1
A lens or component of an instrument that light passes through or interacts with, such as in a camera or telescope.
"Dust on the optic can blur the whole image."
"The engineer cleaned each optic in the telescope before the night's observing began."
"A scratched optic on a camera will leave marks on every photograph."
How to use optic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHaving to do with the eye or with the lenses that handle light.
Common pairings
optic nerve
rifle optic
optic disc
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Word forms
- Plural
- optics
Fill the gap
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The _____ nerve carries signals from the eye to the brain.
Etymology
From Greek optikos, "of or for sight," from optos, "visible."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “optic” mean?
The word “optic” means relating to the eye or to vision. In plain terms, having to do with the eye or with the lenses that handle light.
How do you pronounce “optic”?
“Optic” is pronounced OP-tihk (/ˈɑp.tɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “optic” in a sentence?
Here is “optic” used in a sentence: “The optic nerve carries signals from the eye to the brain.”
What part of speech is “optic”?
Depending on how it is used, “optic” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “optic” come from?
The word “optic” comes from Greek. From Greek optikos, "of or for sight," from optos, "visible.".
Is “optic” a common word?
“Optic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “optic” have?
“Optic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to the eye or to vision.
What is the difference between "optic" and "optical"?
"Optic" and "optical" both relate to the eye or vision, but "optical" is the more common general adjective, as in "optical illusion." "Optic" tends to appear in more technical or anatomical contexts, such as the optic nerve, and as a noun for a lens component in an instrument.
Can "optic" be used as a noun?
Yes, as a noun "optic" refers to a lens or component of an instrument that light passes through or interacts with, such as in a camera or telescope. This usage is common in technical and scientific writing about imaging equipment.
Is "optic" used in medical terms?
Yes, "optic" appears in medical and anatomical terms relating to the eye or vision, such as "optic nerve" and "optic disc." In these compounds, it functions as an adjective describing structures connected to sight.
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