Langimage
English

mirage

|mi/rage|

B2

🇺🇸

/məˈrɑːʒ/

🇬🇧

/mɪˈrɑːʒ/

optical illusion

Etymology
Etymology Information

'mirage' originates from French, specifically the word 'mirer,' where 'mirer' meant 'to look at.'

Historical Evolution

'mirer' transformed into the French word 'mirage,' and eventually became the modern English word 'mirage' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to look at or admire,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an optical illusion.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, especially the appearance of a sheet of water in a desert or on a hot road.

The travelers were deceived by a mirage in the desert.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39