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mirage

noun

/mɪˈrɑːʒ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mirage

An optical illusion in which distant objects or landscapes appear displaced from their actual position due to the bending of light in the Earth's atmosphere.
"The heat waves created a shimmering mirage on the horizon."

Detailed meaning of mirage

It typically occurs in hot or arid regions, where temperature gradients cause light to refract, creating a mirroring effect. Common mirages include the appearance of distant bodies of water or oases in deserts, which can be especially deceiving to travelers seeking relief from harsh conditions. Mirages can be classified into two main types: "inferior" mirages, where the illusion appears below the actual object, and "superior" mirages, where the illusion appears above it. These captivating natural phenomena have been a source of mystery and wonder for centuries, often leading to mistaken perceptions and intriguing stories about distant lands and hidden treasures. Mirages are a vivid reminder of the ever-changing and complex nature of the Earth's atmosphere and its impact on our perception of reality.

Example sentences containing mirage

1. The shimmering heat created a mirage in the distance.
2. They saw a mirage of an oasis in the desert, but it was just an illusion.
3. The mirage made it appear as if the road ahead was covered in water.
4. They were deceived by the mirage, thinking they saw a city on the horizon.
5. The mirage played tricks on their eyes, distorting the landscape.
6. They realized that the mirage was merely a reflection of light in the atmosphere.

History and etymology of mirage

The noun 'mirage' has an intriguing etymology rooted in the French language. It is derived from the French word 'se mirer,' which means 'to be reflected' or 'to appear in a reflected form.' The term 'mirage' made its way into English in the 19th century, maintaining its association with optical illusions. A mirage occurs when light passing through different layers of air with varying temperatures causes a bending or refraction of the light rays, creating the illusion that distant objects or landscapes are displaced from their actual position. This etymology emphasizes the notion that mirages are, in essence, illusions of reflection, where distant scenes appear as though they are being mirrored or displaced due to atmospheric phenomena, lending an air of mystique to these optical occurrences.

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Further usage examples of mirage

1. The mirage disappeared as they got closer, revealing the true barren landscape.
2. They were fascinated by the optical phenomenon of the mirage.
3. The mirage created an ethereal and dreamlike effect in the desert.
4. They learned about the science behind the formation of mirages.
5. The mirage gave them false hope in their search for water.
6. They captured a stunning photograph of the mirage, showcasing its surreal beauty.
7. The mirage seemed to dance and shift with the changing heat waves.
8. They were amazed by the mirage, as it appeared to defy the laws of physics.
9. The mirage served as a reminder of the deceptive nature of appearances.
10. They couldn't trust their senses when faced with a mirage in the desert.
11. The mirage teased them with visions of an unreachable destination.
12. They found solace in the mirage, a temporary escape from the harsh reality.
13. The mirage vanished as quickly as it had appeared, leaving them disoriented.
14. They studied the cultural significance of mirages in folklore and mythology.