mirror etymology

Etymology

The word "mirror" comes from the Old French word "mireor," which in turn comes from the Latin word "miror," meaning "to wonder at." This root word is also the source of the English words "miracle" and "admire."

Meaning

A mirror is a reflective surface that allows you to see your own reflection. Mirrors can be made of glass, metal, or other materials that have a smooth, polished surface. They are used for a variety of purposes, including grooming, vanity, and decoration.

Origin

The earliest known mirrors were made of polished obsidian, a volcanic glass. These mirrors were used by the ancient Egyptians as early as the 3rd millennium BC. Mirrors made of metal, such as bronze, were also used in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.

Glass mirrors were first developed in Venice in the 13th century. These mirrors were made by coating a sheet of glass with a thin layer of silver or mercury. Venetian mirrors quickly became popular throughout Europe, and they remain the most common type of mirror in use today.

Other Meanings

In addition to its literal meaning, the word "mirror" can also be used figuratively to refer to something that accurately reflects or represents something else. For example, a person might be called a "mirror of society" if they embody the values and behaviors of their culture.

Related Terms

  • Reflector - a device that reflects light or other waves
  • Prism - a triangular piece of glass or other material that bends light rays
  • Lens - a curved piece of glass or other material that focuses light rays

mirror relate terms

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  • mirror

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  • miracle

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  • anamorphosis

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  • image

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  • glass

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  • reflect

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