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 negotiations remain a focal point for policymakers and economists, setting the benchmark for nonunionized smaller businesses, which employ the vast majority of Japan’s workforce.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

The piñata functions as a focal point into the scene as a whole, and alludes to one of the biggest gathering cultures in L.A., a very joyous scene of celebration.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

“The main house unfolds around a central landscaped courtyard, a lovely focal point that brings light and flow to the interiors,” the description goes on.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 13, 2026

Protest action was more subdued Friday with some 20 people gathering at a federal facility that has become a focal point of anti-ICE demonstrations.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

Just behind that was the focal point of the entire church: a steel two-pronged fork similar to the one on the roof outside.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

Related Words

• center of attention
• centerpiece