Langimage
English

opaque

|o/paque|

B2

🇺🇸

/oʊˈpeɪk/

🇬🇧

/əʊˈpeɪk/

not transparent

Etymology
Etymology Information

'opaque' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'opacus,' where 'opacus' meant 'shaded' or 'dark.'

Historical Evolution

'opacus' transformed into the French word 'opaque,' and eventually became the modern English word 'opaque' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'shaded or dark,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'not transparent' and 'hard to understand.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

not able to be seen through; not transparent.

The windows were opaque with steam.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

hard or impossible to understand; unfathomable.

The professor's explanation was opaque to most of the students.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39