# imaging

/ˈɪmɪdʒɪŋ/ (US) · /ˈɪmɪdʒɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/imaging
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. medical/scientific pictures

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the use of special machines to create pictures of the inside of the body or other hidden objects.

For teachers: the technique of creating visual representations of the interior of a body or object for medical or scientific analysis.

- The doctor ordered some medical imaging to see if any bones were broken.
- Advanced resonance imaging allowed the surgeons to map the neural pathways with high precision before beginning the delicate operation.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier in phrases like 'imaging technology' or 'diagnostic imaging'.

### 2. mental visualization

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Formal

using your imagination to create pictures in your mind to help you relax or change your behavior.

For teachers: the therapeutic or psychological use of mental visualization to influence a person's physical or emotional state.

- The athlete used mental imaging to prepare for the big race.
- The therapist guided the patient through a series of guided imaging exercises designed to reduce chronic pain through cognitive refocusing.

Teaching tip: In everyday conversation, people usually say 'visualization' rather than 'imaging' for this mental process.

## Examples

- The doctor ordered medical imaging to check my broken arm.
- Advances in diagnostic imaging have made it much easier for surgeons to plan complex operations with high precision.
- While traditional X-rays remain a staple of clinical practice, modern resonance imaging provides a far more detailed view of soft tissue structures without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.