Edit page | Page history | Printable version

specular

1. Having the qualities of a speculum, or mirror; having a smooth, reflecting surface; as, a specular metal; a specular surface.

2. (Science: medicine) Of or pertaining to a speculum; conducted with the aid of a speculum; as, a specular examination.

3. Assisting sight, as a lens or the like. Thy specular orb apply to well-dissected kernels; lo! In each observe the slender threads Of first-beginning trees. (J. Philips)

4. Affording view. Look once more, ere we leave this specular mount. Specular iron.

(Science: chemical) See hematite.

Origin: L. Specularis (cf, from the same root, specula a lookout, watchtower): cf. F. Speculaire. See Speculum.