The word "field glass" is spelled with a "d" instead of a "t" at the end despite the similar pronunciation of the two sounds. This is due to the origin of the word which came from old English and the German word "Fernglas" with a "d". The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription of "field glass" is /fiːld ɡlæs/ where the symbol "ɡ" represents the "g" sound in "glass", and the "s" at the end is pronounced as a "z" because it follows a voiced consonant.
A field glass, also referred to as binoculars or binocular telescopes, is an optical instrument consisting of two small telescopes side by side, aligned so that they point in the same direction. This device is primarily designed for magnifying distant objects and enhancing visual acuity. It is commonly used for various activities such as birdwatching, hunting, stargazing, and military operations.
The field glass typically comprises a pair of identical telescopes within a single structure that allows users to view objects with both eyes simultaneously, providing a three-dimensional perception of the observed scene. The optical system of the field glass incorporates objective lenses, which gather light and create a magnified image, and an adjustable system of prisms that corrects the inverted image produced by the objective lenses. The eyepieces, situated at the opposite end, allow the viewer to see the magnified image created by the objective lenses.
Field glasses are characterized by various specifications such as magnification power and objective lens diameter, expressed as two numbers separated by an “x” (e.g., 8x42). The first number represents the magnification, indicating how many times larger an object appears when viewed through the field glass compared to the unaided eye. The second number represents the diameter of the objective lenses in millimeters, indicating the amount of light gathered and hence influencing the brightness and field of view.
Overall, field glasses provide a convenient and portable means of bringing faraway subjects closer, allowing individuals to appreciate intricate details otherwise difficult to discern with the naked eye.
The etymology of the term "field glass" can be traced to the combination of two words: "field" and "glass".
The word "field" comes from the Old English word "feld", which has Germanic roots. It originally referred to an open, cleared piece of land or a plain, used for cultivation or pasture. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass various open spaces, including areas for sporting activities or military operations.
The word "glass" is derived from the Old English word "glæs", which also has Germanic origins. It referred to a transparent substance made from silica that could be used to create objects such as vessels or windows.
When combined, "field glass" refers to a type of optical instrument used in the field or outdoor settings. It usually refers to binoculars or telescopes that are portable, compact, and suitable for use while observing distant objects in open areas.