focal point

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

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of focal point¹

First recorded in 1705–15

Example Sentences

Allende -- who scored twice in the victory over Cincinnati -- was once again the focal point of the Miami attack.

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Where bitcoin goes has become a focal point for many stock investors as the cryptocurrency’s moves seem increasingly correlated to U.S. growth stocks.

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But above all for many, insurers have become the focal point of indignation.

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“Aside from the streaming business, a focal point for Disney investors over the next year is the cruise-line business,” wrote Seaport Research’s David Joyce this past week.

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The webpage had been a focal point for both vaccine skeptics, who criticized its earlier language, and public health advocates, who wondered how far Kennedy would go to change federal agencies’ language around vaccines.

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Related Words

• center of attention www.thesaurus.com
• centerpiece