1. Opaque (adjective): Not able to be seen through; not transparent.
2. Opaque (adjective): Difficult to understand or explain.
3. Opaque (adjective): Lacking brightness or luster; dull.
4. Opaque (noun): A substance that does not allow light to pass through.
5. Opaque (noun): A material or surface that is not transparent or translucent.
The word "opaque" can be used to describe something that is not transparent or difficult to understand. It is most commonly used to refer to objects or substances through which light cannot pass, but it can also describe something that is unclear or obscure in meaning. For example, you might say, "The glass was opaque," or "The professor's explanation was opaque to the students."
The term "opaque" has a range of meanings depending on its context. Below, we explore these definitions further, showing how they apply in different scenarios.
"Opaque" is often used to describe something that blocks light, such as a solid wall, curtain, or an object that does not allow light to pass through. This is its most literal and common meaning.
In a more abstract sense, "opaque" can refer to something that is unclear or hard to grasp, such as a confusing explanation or a complicated piece of writing.
The word "opaque" functions primarily as an adjective, but it can also be used as a noun. When used as an adjective, it describes the physical or metaphorical inability to see or understand something. As a noun, "opaque" refers to materials that do not let light through. Uncommon uses of "opaque" include describing someone’s thought process or an institution’s practices when they are not open or transparent.
The word "opaque" is made up of two syllables: "o" and "paque." The emphasis is placed on the second syllable, which is pronounced like "pake" (rhyming with "cake"). The first syllable, "o," is pronounced as a long "o," similar to the word "owe." Together, the word sounds like "oh-PAKE." It is important to pronounce the second syllable more strongly than the first, as this is where the stress lies.
Phonetic Pronunciation: /oʊˈpeɪk/
There are several words with similar meanings to "opaque," depending on the context in which it is used.
The following words are opposites of "opaque" and are useful in situations where transparency or clarity is meant.
Here are ten examples of how "opaque" can be used in different contexts:
The word "opaque" functions mainly as an adjective. It is used to describe objects, ideas, or materials that do not allow light to pass through, making them impossible to see through. Additionally, it can describe situations or writing that are hard to understand. Though less common, "opaque" can also be used as a noun, referring to substances that block light, or as an artistic term describing non-transparent paint.
The word "opaque" has several variations, typically used in different contexts.
The following terms are conceptually related to "opaque," either because they also involve transparency or clarity.
The word "opaque" comes from the Latin term opacus, meaning "dark, shaded, or obscure." Over time, the word evolved in Old French before arriving in English in the late 16th century. Its Latin roots explain its current association with things that are not clear or easily understood.
Here are the most common derivatives and compounds of "opaque."
Though "opaque" is a simple word, it is sometimes misspelled.
Below are the most common errors:
The following idiomatic expressions share similar meanings to "opaque" in terms of clarity or transparency:
1. What is the meaning of "opaque" in science?
In scientific terms, "opaque" refers to a substance that does not allow light to pass through.
2. Can "opaque" be used to describe ideas?
Yes, "opaque" can describe ideas or concepts that are difficult to understand or unclear.
3. What is the opposite of "opaque"?
The opposite of "opaque" is transparent, meaning something that allows light to pass through.
4. Is "opaque" used in art?
Yes, artists often use "opaque" to describe colors that are not see-through.
5. What is the plural of "opaque"?
The plural of "opaque" is "opaques," although this form is rare.
6. How do you make glass "opaque"?
Glass can be made "opaque" by adding frosted designs or using materials that block light.
7. Is "opaque" used in medicine?
In medical imaging, "opaque" refers to areas that are not visible on X-rays or scans due to density.
8. What is an "opaque" question?
An "opaque" question is one that
is confusing or unclear, often because of wording or structure.
9. Is "opaque" negative or positive?
"Opaque" usually has a negative connotation when describing something unclear or difficult to understand.
10. Can water be "opaque"?
Yes, water can appear "opaque" if it contains particles or substances that prevent light from passing through.
"Opaque" is a versatile word useful for describing everything from physical objects that block light to abstract ideas that are hard to understand. Consider using "opaque" in your vocabulary to add clarity to your descriptions.
