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

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

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

At the heart of it, in what is known as Paradise Park, you will find the Phoenix centre, which has been a focal point for the folk on the hill for 25 years.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

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

From Slate • May 30, 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 engineers condemned everything “within a hundred-yard radius of the focal point of the sinkhole,” which was right under Portable 19.

From "Tangerine" by Edward Bloor

Related Words

• center of attention
• centerpiece