optical bench

noun

1. an apparatus, as a special table or rigid beam, for the precise positioning of light sources, screens, and optical instruments used for optical and photometric studies, having a ruled bar to which these devices can be attached and along which they can be readily adjusted.

optical bench

noun

1. an apparatus fitted for experimentation in optics, typically consisting of a table and an adjustable arrangement of light source, lenses, prisms, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of optical bench¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The radiating apparatus and the receiver are mounted on stands sliding in an optical bench.

From Project Gutenberg