PRISM Meaning and
Definition
-
A prism is a geometric solid that possesses two parallel and congruent polygonal bases, which are usually in the shape of triangles or parallelograms, connected by several rectangular faces. It is considered a polyhedron due to its flat faces and straight edges. The term "prism" derives from the Greek word "prisma," meaning "something sawed."
In optics, a prism refers to a transparent optical element made of glass or plastic that has at least two polished, non-parallel surfaces. These surfaces cause light entering the prism to refract or bend, separating it into its different spectral components. This phenomenon, known as dispersion, allows prisms to split white light into a spectrum of colors or to reflect light at specific angles. Prisms are widely used in various optical instruments such as cameras, microscopes, binoculars, and spectroscopes.
Beyond optics, the term "prism" can also be used metaphorically to represent a prism-like effect in which an idea, concept, or situation is seen from different perspectives or angles. This metaphorical usage refers to the ability of a prism to break light into its constituent colors, expanding the understanding of a particular subject matter. It implies that examining a matter from multiple viewpoints can provide a more comprehensive and well-rounded interpretation.
-
A solid whose sides are parallelograms and whose transverse section is a triangle or other plane figure; a triangular p. (one whose cross section is a triangle) deflects the ray of light toward the base of the triangle and splits it up into its primary colors; it is used in spectacles to correct high degrees of imbalance of the extrinsic ocular muscles.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
A solid whose ends or bases are similar, equal and parallel planes, and whose sides are parallelograms; a triangular bar of glass.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PRISM *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for PRISM
Etymology of PRISM
The word "prism" has Greek origins. It comes from the ancient Greek word "prisma", which means "something sawn or sawed off". This term was derived from the verb "prizein", meaning "to saw off" or "to cut". The term was later adopted into Latin as "prisma". The word "prism" came into English usage directly from Latin around the 16th century, referring to the geometric object with a triangular shape and the ability to refract light.
Similar spelling words for PRISM
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
