focal point

American  

noun

1. Also called principal focus.  Optics. either of two points on the axis of a mirror, lens, or other optical system, one point being such that rays diverging from it are deviated parallel to the axis upon refraction or reflection by the system and the other point being such that rays parallel to the axis of the system converge to the point upon refraction or reflection by the system.

2. the point at which all elements or aspects converge; center of activity or attention.

   The focal point of our discussion was the need for action.

3. the central or principal point of focus.

---

focal point British  

noun

1. Also called: principal focus.   focus.  the point on the axis of a lens or mirror to which parallel rays of light converge or from which they appear to diverge after refraction or reflection

2. a central point of attention or interest

---

focal point Scientific  

1. The point at which all radiation coming from a single direction and passing through a lens or striking a mirror converges.

2. Also called focus

---

Etymology

Origin of focal point

First recorded in 1705–15

Example Sentences

The annual recurring revenue was the focal point for Wall Street.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

That’s rightly going to be the focal point of Talarico’s campaign.

From Slate • May 30, 2026

The other focal point is a rebel-held city largely cut off from government resources.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

As you continue into the lounge, the focal point is the stage, which is adorned with zebra-printed carpet and dramatic, red velvet curtains.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

The book continues to be the focal point of study and debate by scholars and was once described by Martin Luther King Jr. as the “historical bible of the Civil Rights Movement.”

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander

Related Words

• center of attention
• centerpiece