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achromat

achromat

9.9
A person who cannot see colors and sees only shades of gray
  • noun
  • /ˈeɪkrəˌmæt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : acromático
  • People with achromat vision see the world only in shades of gray.

Examples

  • An achromat cannot distinguish between red and green.

  • The scientist used an achromat to reduce color errors in the microscope.

  • Modern cameras often use an achromat to improve image clarity.

  • Many achromats find it challenging to navigate colorful environments.

  • An achromat does not perceive any colors, only shades of gray.

  • The scientist used an achromat lens to improve the clarity of the microscope's images.

  • During the art class, James explained how being an achromat affected his ability to see paintings.

Synonyms

color-blind person
vsachromat
  • US
1 3.5

A person who cannot tell some colors apart

usually refers to total inability to see color rather than partial deficiency
achromatic lens
vsachromat
  • Specialized
6.9

A lens made of more than one part that reduces color blur in camera images

covers both total color deficiency in people and tools that correct color distortion
monochromat
vsachromat
  • Specialized
9.9

A person who can see only shades of one color

also applies to optical devices that correct color distortion
apochromat
vsachromat
  • Specialized
9.9

Made so three colours of light come to the same focus point

is broader and not limited to three specific wavelengths

Surface Forms

achromat singular
achromats plural

Morphology

achromat = achromatic (opaque) = a + chromat

The noun is a clipped technical form of 'achromatic', and the specific senses 'color-blind person' and 'corrected lens' are not predictable for most learners.

Etymology

The word achromat comes from Greek parts a- 'not' and chroma 'color', so it means 'without color' and can describe a person who sees only shades of gray or a lens that removes color distortion.