periscope
|per-i-scope|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈpɛrɪˌskoʊp/
🇬🇧
/ˈpɛrɪskəʊp/
optical viewing instrument
Etymology
Etymology Information
'periscope' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'periskopos,' where 'peri-' meant 'around' and 'skopein' meant 'to look.'
Historical Evolution
'periskopos' transformed into the French word 'périscope,' and eventually became the modern English word 'periscope' through adaptation.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to look around,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an optical instrument for viewing objects above direct sight.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an optical instrument used to view objects that are above the level of direct sight, typically used in submarines.
The captain used the periscope to scan the horizon for enemy ships.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/24 15:35