# telescopic

/ˌtɛɫəˈskɔpɪk/ (US) · /tˌɛlɪskˈɒpɪk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/telescopic
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

describing something that can be made longer or shorter by sliding parts inside each other, like a telescope. It can also describe something that looks far away or is very small.

For teachers: relating to or resembling a telescope; specifically, capable of being extended or retracted by telescoping parts. Often used to describe visual perception or the physical structure of an instrument.

## Examples

- The chair has a telescopic leg for easy storage.
- The engineer designed a telescopic boom that could reach the top of the building without needing a crane.
- Through a telescopic lens, the astronomer observed the faint glow of a distant galaxy that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye.

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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.