mirage etymology

Etymology:

The word "mirage" comes from the Latin word "mirari," meaning "to wonder at" or "marvel at."

Meaning:

A mirage is an optical illusion created by light refraction that makes distant objects appear to be closer or different from their actual distance. It is typically caused by warm air near the ground bending light rays.

Origin:

The concept of mirages has been known for centuries. The earliest known written record of a mirage is found in the writings of the Greek philosopher Aristotle (384-322 BC), who described it as a "false vision." The term "mirage" itself was first used in the 17th century, derived from the Latin word "mirari."

Mirages are common in hot and dry climates, such as deserts and highways. They can create the illusion of water, trees, or buildings on the horizon, which can be misleading to travelers.

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