What does prism mean?
A prism is a solid with flat faces that can bend light. Its best-known form is the triangular glass prism, which separates a beam of white light into a spectrum of colours, revealing that light contains different wavelengths. In geometry, the term refers more generally to any solid with two matching, parallel polygonal bases joined by parallelogram-shaped sides. The word is also used metaphorically for a range or diversity of qualities, but its scientific meanings are the most common. A prism is especially associated with refraction, the change in the direction of light as it passes from one material into another. The triangular shape is not essential: prisms may have other polygonal cross-sections and are used in optics, instruments, and decorative design.
A transparent solid, especially one with a triangular cross-section, that refracts light and separates it into its component colours.
"Light entering the glass prism is refracted into a visible spectrum."
The optical meaning is dominant in general and scientific usage.
A geometric solid with two parallel, congruent polygonal bases and parallelogram-shaped lateral faces.
"The teacher asked the class to identify the prism from the geometric diagram."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the singular noun.
"Several glass prisms were arranged on the laboratory table."
A prism turns ordinary white light into a spectrum, making the hidden colours of light visible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How prism is actually used
In scientific contexts, “prism” usually refers to an optical element, while in geometry it denotes a solid with two congruent parallel polygonal bases.