Collimate

/ˈkɒl.ɪ.meɪt/ verb

Definition

To align light rays or particles into a parallel beam; to bring into line or correct the alignment of optical or mechanical systems.

Etymology

From Latin 'collineare,' from 'col-' (together) plus 'lineare' (to make straight, from 'linea,' line), formed by blending with 'collimare,' likely influenced by 'collimatus' in scientific Latin.

Kelly Says

Collimation is invisible magic in technology—telescopes, lasers, and microscopes all depend on perfectly collimated light beams, yet you'll never see these beams; you see only what they reveal!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.