optical illusion

American  

noun

1. illusion4

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optical illusion British  

noun

1. an object causing a false visual impression

2. an instance of deception by such an object

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Etymology

Origin of optical illusion

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

optical illusion

It is actually something of an optical illusion, as the options are not getting more expensive in terms of price as the earnings date approaches.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 6, 2026

The saber-toothed cat that appears mirage-like through a window, an optical illusion known as a Pepper’s Ghost, doesn’t reflect modern knowledge of the animal’s anatomy.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 6, 2026

By presenting Satan's fall as a violent physical event instead of a purely spiritual allegory or optical illusion, Dante may have helped move Western thought toward the idea that celestial objects can directly reshape Earth.

From Science Daily ● May 11, 2026

Scotland fans on social media have compared the new away jersey to the optical illusion dress that became an internet sensation in 2015.

From BBC ● Mar. 24, 2026

“Like you said, it’s not magic. Must be something like our sky turning gray. Some kind of optical illusion or hologram, hiding a doorway. This place is all jacked up.”

From "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner