collimating
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈkɒlɪmeɪtɪŋ/
KK: /kɑːlɪmeɪtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that aligns or focuses light or other waves in a parallel direction.
Example
The collimating lens helped to direct the laser beam accurately.
Conversation
Have you seen the new telescope?
Yeah, I heard it's really good for collimating images.
Exactly! I can't wait to try it out tonight.
Let’s see if we can spot some planets with that collimating feature!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
parallel
aligned
focused
Antonyms
divergent
scattered
dispersed
verb
Definition
To adjust the parts of an optical system so that they are aligned properly, allowing for accurate focusing and imaging.
Example
The technician is collimating the telescope to ensure the images are sharp and clear.
Tense Forms
Past: collimated
Past Participle: collimated
Conversation
Have you ever tried collimating your telescope before?
No, I haven't, but I've heard it makes a big difference in the images you see.
It really does! I was amazed at the clarity after collimating mine last week.
Root Explanation
Collimating is formed from "col-" (meaning together) and "limare" (meaning to smooth or to limit). The term describes the process of aligning light rays to be parallel, effectively smoothing their path together.
Memory Tip
Think of 'together' ('col-') and 'smoothing' ('limare') to remember that collimating means aligning light rays to travel in parallel.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.