synoptic

adjective syn·op·tic \sə-ˈnäp-tik\

Definition of SYNOPTIC

: affording a general view of a whole

: manifesting or characterized by comprehensiveness or breadth of view

: presenting or taking the same or common view; specifically often capitalized : of or relating to the first three Gospels of the New Testament

: relating to or displaying conditions (as of the atmosphere or weather) as they exist simultaneously over a broad area

— syn·op·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

syn·op·tic also syn·op·ti·cal \-ti-kəl\

Greek synoptikos, from synopsesthai

First Known Use: 1763

Next Word in the Dictionary: synoptic meteorologyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: synopsizeAll Words Near: synoptic

What made you want to look up synoptic? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears