specular

[ spek-yuh-ler ]

adjective

1. pertaining to or having the properties of a mirror.
2. pertaining to a speculum.
3. Optics. (of reflected light) directed, as from a smooth, polished surface ( diffuse ).

specular

/ ˈspɛkjʊlə /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or having the properties of a mirror

   specular reflection

2. of or relating to a speculum

Derived Forms

• ˈspecularly, adverb

Other Words From

• specu·lar·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of specular¹

1570–80; < Latin speculāris, equivalent to specul ( um ) a mirror ( spec ( ere ) to look, regard + -ulum instrumental suffix; -ule ) + -āris -ar ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of specular¹

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

Example Sentences

The regions where the specular reflections show up are bafflingly dry.

From Science News

Red, somewhat slaty jasper, mixed with quartz and chalcedony, and containing specular iron ore.

From Project Gutenberg

Magnetite or magnetic iron ore, specular iron, and limonite are also oxides of iron.

From Project Gutenberg

Galena is often mistaken for other ores, specular iron ore for instance.

From Project Gutenberg

Does it seem cold and unhandsome, this specular survey of persons?

From Project Gutenberg

The pepitas occur in different forms, often adhering to micaceous specular iron.

From Project Gutenberg