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

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 formsspec·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 Formsspecularly, 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

Word Origin and History for specular

specular

adj.

1570s, of mirrors and glass, from Latin specularis, from speculum (see speculum). Of sight or vision, from 1650s, from Latin speculari "to spy" (see speculation).