specular

[spek-yuh-ler]

adjective

1. pertaining to or having the properties of a mirror.

2. pertaining to a speculum.

3. Optics.,  (of reflected light) directed, as from a smooth, polished surface (diffuse ).

specular

/ ˈspɛkjʊlə /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or having the properties of a mirror

   specular reflection

2. of or relating to a speculum

Other Word Forms

• specularly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of specular¹

1570–80; < Latin speculāris, equivalent to specul ( um ) a mirror ( spec ( ere ) to look, regard + -ulum instrumental suffix; -ule ) + -āris -ar ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of specular¹

C16: from Latin speculāris, from speculum a mirror, from specere to look at

Example Sentences

These glints, or specular reflections, have been observed, for instance, on Saturn's largest moon, Titan, which helped to confirm the moon's large lakes.

From Science Daily

"There have been other little surprises. But, I’ve just learned to not ask questions and just go with it. It always turns out specular."

From Fox News

Curiously, the intensity of competition may explain the specular rise in U.S. profits.

From Washington Post

There are two types of reflection: specular and diffuse.

From Nature

It is difficult to imagine popular music without his stark, and specular, existential insight.

From The New Yorker