specular

[ spek-yuh-ler ]

/ ˈspɛk yə lər /

adjective

pertaining to or having the properties of a mirror.

pertaining to a speculum.

Optics. (of reflected light) directed, as from a smooth, polished surface (opposed to diffuse).

Nearby words

spectroscopy, spectrum, spectrum analyser, spectrum analysis, spectrum disorder, specular, speculate, speculation, speculative, speculative fiction, speculative philosophy

Origin of specular

1570–80; < Latin speculāris, equivalent to specul(um) a mirror (spec(ere) to look, regard + -ulum instrumental suffix; see -ule) + -āris -ar¹

Related forms

spec·u·lar·ly, adverb

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for specular

Specular haematite forms a constituent of certain schistose rocks, such as the Brazilian itabirite.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 7|Various
According to Campbell-Swinton the “diffuse” reflection is accompanied by a certain amount of “specular” reflection.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 8|Various
Galena is often mistaken for other ores, specular iron ore for instance.
The A B C of Mining|Charles A. Bramble
That done he will choose a specular point himself and keep a sharp look-out.
The Sportsman|Xenophon

There are no metallic ores, nor has any sulphur been found; but a little iron pyrites and specular iron are occasionally met with.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 17, Slice 3|Various

British Dictionary definitions for specular

specular

/ (ˈspɛkjʊlə) /

adjective

of, relating to, or having the properties of a mirrorspecular reflection

of or relating to a speculum

Derived Forms

specularly, adverb

Word Origin for specular

C16: from Latin speculāris, from speculum a mirror, from specere to look at

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012