optical illusion

/ˌɑptəkəl ɪˌluʒən/
IPA guide

Other forms: optical illusions

Definitions of optical illusion
  1. noun
    an optical phenomenon that results in a false or deceptive visual impression
    see moresee less
    types:
    apparent motion, apparent movement, motion, movement
    an optical illusion of motion produced by viewing a rapid succession of still pictures of a moving object
    mirage
    an optical illusion in which atmospheric refraction by a layer of hot air distorts or inverts reflections of distant objects
    fata morgana
    a mirage in the Strait of Messina (attributed to the Arthurian sorcerer Morgan le Fay)
    type of:
    optical phenomenon
    a physical phenomenon related to or involving light
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