roof prism

noun

: a glass prism used in an optical range finder and other instruments that performs the double function of changing the direction of the light rays by 90 degrees and reversing the image right to left compare porro prism

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of roof prism was in 1904

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near roof prism

Cite this Entry

“Roof prism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/roof%20prism. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!