Airy disk

noun

: the bright central spot in the system of diffraction rings formed by an optical system with light from a point source (as a star)

Word History

Etymology

after George Biddell Airy †1892 English mathematician and astronomer

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Airy disk was in 1923

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Dictionary Entries Near Airy disk

airy

Airy disk

airy-fairy

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Cite this Entry

“Airy disk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Airy%20disk. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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