Aspheric – Definition & Meaning

Aspheric is a term that is commonly used in the fields of optics and ophthalmology. It refers to a type of lens or surface that is not perfectly spherical, but rather has a more complex shape that allows for better correction of certain types of visual aberrations. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of aspheric, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and usage in example sentences.

Definitions

Aspheric is an adjective that describes a lens or surface that is not spherical in shape. This means that it has a more complex curvature, which can help to correct certain types of visual aberrations that are not corrected by traditional spherical lenses. Aspheric lenses are often used in eyeglasses, contact lenses, and camera lenses.

Origin

The term aspheric comes from the Greek word “a-” which means “not” and “sphaira” which means “sphere”. It was first used in the field of optics in the 1950s to describe a type of lens that had a non-spherical shape. Since then, it has become a commonly used term in the fields of ophthalmology, optics, and lens design.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of aspheric is consistent across different dictionaries. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines aspheric as “not being a sphere or portion of a sphere”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “not having the shape of a sphere; not spherical”. The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “not having the same curvature in all directions”.

Associations

Aspheric is most commonly associated with the fields of optics and ophthalmology. It is often used to describe lenses that are designed to correct visual aberrations that cannot be corrected by traditional spherical lenses. Aspheric lenses are also used in cameras and other optical devices to improve image quality.

Synonyms

There are several synonyms for aspheric, including non-spherical, non-spheroidal, and non-circular. These terms all describe a shape that is not perfectly round or spherical.

Antonyms

The antonyms of aspheric are spherical, round, and circular. These terms describe shapes that are perfectly round or spherical.

The same root words

Aspheric has the same root word as sphere, which comes from the Greek word “sphaira”. Other words with the same root include spherical, spheroid, and hemisphere.

Example Sentences

1. The aspheric lens in my glasses has greatly improved my vision.
2. The camera lens uses an aspheric design to reduce distortion.
3. The ophthalmologist recommended an aspheric contact lens for my astigmatism.
4. The telescope uses an aspheric mirror to reduce chromatic aberration.
5. The aspheric surface of the lens allows for better correction of visual aberrations.