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

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

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

Pilots often experience an optical illusion of a passing object that can make it appear to be traveling at great speed even if it is barely moving, officials have said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

Is a rat hole the same as an optical illusion deemed to be a holy image?

From Slate • Feb. 11, 2024

Due to the low angle of the Sun's rays, this can appear an optical illusion, as the pink wavelengths light up the base of the cloud.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2024

I knew the glow was my imag-ination or an optical illusion based on the fact that the light coming from the basement was bright while the rest of the house was so dark.

From "Shelter (Book One): A Mickey Bolitar Novel" by Harlan Coben