How Do You Spell PARFOCAL?

Pronunciation: [pˈɑːfə͡ʊkə͡l] (IPA)

The word "Parfocal" is spelled with emphasis on the second syllable "FO-cul". It is pronounced using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /pɑrˈfoʊkəl/. The "r" in "par" is pronounced, and the "a" is the short "a" sound. The "fo" is pronounced with the long "o" sound, and the "cul" is pronounced with the short "u" sound. This term is commonly used in photography and optics to describe a lens that maintains focus when zooming, making it easier for photographers to capture sharp images.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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PARFOCAL Meaning and Definition

  1. Parfocal is an adjective that refers to the characteristic of optical instruments, such as microscopes, binoculars, or cameras, to maintain focus on an object as the magnification or focal length is adjusted. When an instrument is parfocal, it means that once the focus has been achieved at a particular setting, it remains relatively sharp and in focus even when the magnification or focal length is changed.

    The term "parfocal" is derived from the combination of the prefix "para-" meaning "alongside" or "beside," and the word "focal" which relates to focus. Parfocal instruments are designed to achieve consistency and efficiency in observation or photography by allowing users to switch between different magnifications or focal lengths without the need to constantly refocus the image.

    This attribute is particularly useful in scientific research, where it is essential to view or capture detailed images at various magnifications without losing focus. Parfocal lenses or microscope objectives are designed with specific optical properties to ensure that the same image plane is maintained throughout the magnification range. This characteristic not only saves time but also enhances precision and accuracy in observations, measurements, and documentation.

    In summary, parfocal refers to the property of optical instruments to maintain focus when changing magnification or focal length, providing uninterrupted observations or photography without the need for repeated focusing adjustments.

Common Misspellings for PARFOCAL

Etymology of PARFOCAL

The word "parfocal" is derived from two Latin roots: "par" meaning "equal" or "same", and "focalis" meaning "pertaining to a focus". In photography, the term "parfocal" refers to the characteristic of a lens system that maintains focus on the subject when switching between different magnifications or focal lengths. The concept of "parfocal" was first applied to microscope objectives in the early 20th century and later extended to camera lenses.