focal

adjective

fo·​cal ˈfō-kəl How to pronounce focal (audio)
: of, relating to, being, or having a focus
focally adverb

Examples of focal in a Sentence

a focal figure in the movement
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These settings are ideal for astrophotography, while the overall focal range further increases its usefulness when shooting a range of night sky compositions. James Abbott, Space.com, 23 May 2025 Raw images captured with the zoom show slight pincushion distortion through the entire focal range. PC Magazine, 19 May 2025 It is considered a type of focal dystonia—a neurological condition that causes muscle spasms in a specific part of the body. Kate Nalepinski, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 May 2025 Anything left over can go towards accessories or a focal piece such as a fireplace mantel. Lauren Finney Harden, USA Today, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for focal

Word History

First Known Use

1676, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of focal was in 1676

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Cite this Entry

“Focal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/focal. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

focal

adjective
fo·​cal ˈfō-kəl How to pronounce focal (audio)
: of, relating to, or having a focus
focally adverb

Medical Definition

focal

adjective
fo·​cal ˈfō-kəl How to pronounce focal (audio)
: of, relating to, being, or having a focus
focally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on focal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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