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.

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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

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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

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Etymology

Origin of focal point

First recorded in 1705–15

Example Sentences

Shi's departure after almost a decade removed a toxic focal point for the fans, but angst against Fosun remains.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Earnings season has also become a focal point, as quarterly results dominate headlines and investors tend to make trading decisions based on short-term news.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

The prospect of a SpaceX IPO has become a key focal point for markets, and any delay tied to deteriorating conditions could carry broader implications.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

Bigger parking decks are often a focal point of the action, they said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

The focal point of this letter is to thank you for the photo session with the photographer and obtain information from you how I can obtain a good amount of photos.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Related Words

• center of attention
• centerpiece