noun
Uncommon
prism
PRIHZM
Prism (noun) means a transparent solid, often triangular, that bends light and can split it into a rainbow of colours. Example: “Light passing through the prism scattered into a rainbow on the wall.”
noun
1
A transparent solid, often triangular, that bends light and can split it into a rainbow of colours.
"Light passing through the prism scattered into a rainbow on the wall."
2
A particular way of viewing or interpreting something.
"She saw the whole debate through the prism of her own upbringing."
How to use prism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA glass or crystal shape that splits white light into colours, or (figuratively) a particular lens or angle through which you see something.
Common pairings
refract through a prism
through the prism of
glass prism
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Word forms
- Plural
- prisms
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Light passing through the _____ scattered into a rainbow on the wall.
Etymology
From Greek prísma, "something sawn," via Late Latin prisma.
Synonyms
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optical prism
Rhymes for prism
See all rhymes for prism →Frequently asked questions
What does “prism” mean?
The word “prism” means a transparent solid, often triangular, that bends light and can split it into a rainbow of colours. In plain terms, a glass or crystal shape that splits white light into colours, or (figuratively) a particular lens or angle through which you see something.
How do you pronounce “prism”?
“Prism” is pronounced PRIHZM (/ˈpɹɪzəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “prism” in a sentence?
Here is “prism” used in a sentence: “Light passing through the prism scattered into a rainbow on the wall.”
What part of speech is “prism”?
“Prism” is a noun.
Where does the word “prism” come from?
The word “prism” comes from Late Latin. From Greek prísma, "something sawn," via Late Latin prisma.
Is “prism” a common word?
“Prism” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “prism” have?
“Prism” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a transparent solid, often triangular, that bends light and can split it into a rainbow of colours.
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