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

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

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

Earlier, she told Xi that the Taiwan Strait would "no longer be a focal point of potential conflict" and "both sides should transcend political confrontation".

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 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 last two will be the focal point of the curriculum.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

Related Words

• center of attention
• centerpiece