Optics

/ˈɒptɪks/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The branch of physics that deals with the behavior and properties of light and vision.
She studied optics in college, focusing on the properties of lenses and reflections.
The way in which an event, situation, or course of action is perceived or regarded.
The optics of the situation made it difficult for the company to gain public support.
An optical instrument; a device used to enhance or manipulate light.
He used various optics in his experiments to manipulate light more effectively.

Etymology

From Greek 'optikos', meaning 'pertaining to sight'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bad optics
A situation that is perceived negatively due to its appearance or implications.
optics matter
Refers to the importance of perception in a situation.
optics of power
The visual representation or interpretation of power dynamics.

Related Words

lens
A piece of glass or other transparent material that refracts light.
spectroscopy
The study of the interaction between light and matter.

Slang Meanings

The perception or interpretation of an action or event.
The optics on their decision to cut funding were terrible.
The appearance or impression something creates.
They tried to change the optics of the scandal by doing a press release.