Pronunciation: [ɹɪflˈɛktə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "reflector" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "re-" is pronounced as /rɛ/ as in the word "red". The second syllable "flec-" is pronounced as /flɛk/ with a stressed /ɛ/. Lastly, the third syllable "-tor" is pronounced as /tɔr/ as in the word "tour". The word "reflector" is often used to describe a device that reflects light or sound, such as a mirror or a traffic sign.
A reflector is an object or surface that is designed to redirect or bounce back light, heat, or sound waves, typically in a specific direction. It is often used to increase the visibility or efficiency of a light source or to focus or redirect thermal or acoustic energy.
In the context of light, a reflector is commonly used to enhance the illumination of an area by reflecting and focusing light beams emitted by a source. This can be achieved by using materials with high reflective properties, such as metal or glass, which efficiently bounce the light in a particular direction. Reflectors are commonly found in various lighting devices, such as lamps, torches, and automotive headlights, to increase brightness and improve visibility.
When considering heat or thermal energy, a reflector is used to direct and concentrate heat toward a specific target, particularly in heating systems or devices. By utilizing materials with high thermal conductivity, a reflector can efficiently redirect and intensify the heat generated by a source, leading to faster and more effective heating.
Similarly, in the realm of sound, reflectors are utilized to redirect or concentrate acoustic waves. They are often found in auditoriums, concert halls, or recording studios to improve sound clarity and amplify projected audio by reflecting sound waves towards a desired audience or recording area.
In summary, a reflector is a device or surface employed to redirect light, heat, or sound waves with the aim of enhancing visibility, increasing thermal efficiency, or improving acoustic projection.
Any surface which reflects the waves of light, heat, or sound.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A surface of polished metal, or any other suitable material, which throws rays of light, heat, or sound in any required direction.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "reflector" originated from the Latin word "reflectere", which is a combination of the prefix "re-" meaning "back" or "again", and the verb "flectere" meaning "to bend" or "to curve". "Reflectere" can be further traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*flek-", meaning "to bend" or "to curve". The term "reflector" refers to an object that reflects or redirects light or sound.
