optics

[op-tiks]

noun

1. (used with a singular verb),  the branch of physical science that deals with the properties and phenomena of both visible and invisible light and with vision.

2. (used with a plural verb),  the way a situation, action, event, etc., is perceived by the public or by a particular group of people.

   The optics on this issue are pretty good for the Democrats.

   Administrators worry about the bad optics of hiring new staff during a budget crisis.

optics

/ ˈɒptɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the branch of science concerned with vision and the generation, nature, propagation, and behaviour of electromagnetic light

optics

1. The scientific study of light and vision. The study of optics led to the development of more general theories of electromagnetic radiation and theories of color.

optics

1. The branch of physics dealing with light. (See electromagnetic waves, laser, lens, reflection, and refraction.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of optics¹

First recorded in 1570–80; from Medieval Latin optica, from Greek optiká “theory of the laws of light,” noun use of neuter plural of adjective optikós; optic, -ics

Example Sentences

Collier’s investment in Unrivaled has been portrayed at times as a conflict of interest—and yes, bashing one league while you’re building another presents some interesting optics, to say the least.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Still, I worried about the optics of swaggering around, brandishing a long plastic tube.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Still, returning the authority came with complicated optics for the FAA, whose oversight has been criticized as weak after the plane maker’s crises.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Local news outlets quickly reported the dispute, with Portland and Chicago residents weighing concerns about safety, civil liberties, and the optics of armed troops patrolling their cities.

Read more on Salon

She’s trying to be gentle and is clearly concerned about the optics, but it makes it harder for you to understand what actually is happening.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• eyesight 
• perception 
• view