English · Word Candidate

optic

/ˈɒp.tɪk/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: optics

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Of, or relating to the eye or to vision.

Adjective

Examples

The moon, whose orb / Through optic glass the Tuscan artist views.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Of, or relating to optics or optical instruments.

Adjective

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A lens or other part of an optical instrument that interacts with light.

Noun

Examples

The single-imaging optic of the mammalian eye offers some distinct visual advantages. Such lenses can take in photons from a wide range of angles, increasing light sensitivity. They also have high spatial resolution, resolving incoming images in minute detail.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A measuring device with a small window, attached to an upside-down bottle, used to dispense alcoholic drinks in a bar.

Noun

Examples

They were neatly lined up on three shelves between the optics of martini, vodka, whisky and gin.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “optic” mean?

Of, or relating to the eye or to vision.

Is “optic” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.