Langimage
English

opacity

|o-pa-ci-ty|

C1

🇺🇸

/oʊˈpæsɪti/

🇬🇧

/əʊˈpæsɪti/

lack of transparency

Etymology
Etymology Information

'opacity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'opacitas,' where 'opacus' meant 'shady' or 'dark.'

Historical Evolution

'opacitas' transformed into the Old French word 'opacité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'opacity' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'shady or dark,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not allowing light to pass through.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being opaque; not allowing light to pass through.

The opacity of the glass made it impossible to see through.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the state of being difficult to understand or unclear.

The opacity of the legal document confused many readers.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42