optical
adj. C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈɑptɪkəɫ// UK //ˈɒptɪkəl// op·ti·cal
adj. relating to sight or the way light works. You use this to describe things that help you see better or tools that use light, like cameras and glasses.
adj. relating to sight, the physical properties of light, or the use of light in instruments. Often used to describe lenses, vision, or visual illusions.
The camera has a high-quality optical lens.
The scientist used an optical microscope to examine the structure of the cells under bright light.
Modern high-speed internet relies on optical fibres that transmit data as pulses of light across vast distances with minimal signal loss.
From optic + -al.
Usage
Typically placed before the noun it modifies. Often contrasts with 'digital' in the context of cameras and zoom technology.