First Known Use: 1570
Dictionary
prism
noun \ˈpri-zəm\
: a transparent glass or plastic object that usually has three sides and that separates the light that passes through it into different colors
Full Definition of PRISM
1
: a polyhedron with two polygonal faces lying in parallel planes and with the other faces parallelograms
2
a : a transparent body that is bounded in part by two nonparallel plane faces and is used to refract or disperse a beam of light b : a prism-shaped decorative glass luster
3
: a crystal form whose faces are parallel to one axis; especially : one whose faces are parallel to the vertical axis
4
: a medium that distorts, slants, or colors whatever is viewed through it
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Origin of PRISM
Late Latin prismat-, prisma, from Greek, literally, anything sawn, from priein to saw
PRISM Defined for Kids
prism
noun \ˈpri-zəm\
Definition of PRISM for Kids
: a transparent object that usually has three sides and bends light so that it breaks up into rainbow colors
Medical Dictionary
prism
noun \ˈpriz-əm\
Medical Definition of PRISM
1
: a polyhedron with two polygonal faces lying in parallel planes and with the other faces parallelograms
2
: a transparent body that is bounded in part by two nonparallel plane faces and is used to refract or disperse a beam of light
3
: a crystal form whose faces are parallel to one axis; especially : one whose faces are parallel to the vertical axis
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