Word
barlow
Phoneticsbar·low
/ˈbɑɹˌɫoʊ/
Definitions
01astronomy lens
n. a special lens you put in a telescope to increase the magnification and see objects larger.
n. a Barlow lens; a diverging lens used in series with other optics to increase the effective focal length of an optical system.
“He used a 2x Barlow to get a closer look at the craters on the moon.”
“By inserting a high-quality Barlow into the optical train, the astrophotographer effectively doubled the magnification without needing to swap the primary eyepiece.”
Technical
Usage
Often used as a modifier before 'lens', though frequently shortened to just 'a Barlow' in amateur astronomy circles.
Synonyms
02pocket knife
n. a traditional type of folding knife with a long metal part at the handle and one or two blades.
n. a type of sturdy pocket knife characterized by a long bolster and one or two blades, originally manufactured in Sheffield.
“The old man pulled a Barlow from his pocket to whittle a piece of wood.”
“The collector prized the vintage Barlow for its bone handle and the distinctive elongated bolster that defined the Sheffield pattern.”
Archaic
Teaching tip
This term is largely historical or specific to knife collectors; most modern speakers would simply say 'pocket knife'.
Synonyms