GRE Word List

ASTIGMATISM

a defect of an optical system (such as a lens) causing rays from a point to fail to meet in a focal point resulting in a blurred and imperfect image

The meaning of the word astigmatism is a defect of an optical system (such as a lens) causing rays from a point to fail to meet in a focal point resulting in a blurred and imperfect image.

Random words

WordMeaning
jingoistextreme chauvinism or nationalism marked especially by a belligerent foreign policy
repelto drive back : repulse
partialitythe quality or state of being partial : bias
fissurea narrow opening or crack of considerable length and depth usually occurring from some breaking or parting
askewout of line : at an angle
megalomaniaa mania (see mania
pusillanimouslacking courage and resolution : marked by contemptible timidity
smeltany of a family (Osmeridae) of small bony fishes that closely resemble the trouts in general structure, live along coasts and ascend rivers to spawn or are landlocked, and have delicate oily flesh with a distinctive odor and taste
reminiscenceapprehension of a Platonic idea as if it had been known in a previous existence
quintessencethe fifth and highest element in ancient and medieval philosophy that permeates all nature and is the substance composing the celestial bodies