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Glite Dictionary
milliradian

milliradian

9.9
A unit for measuring very small angles often used for aiming at long distances
  • noun
  • /ˌmɪlɪˈreɪdiən/
  • Specialized
translation icon : miliradian
  • The engineer calculated the angle in milliradians to ensure precise measurements for the project.

Examples

  • He adjusted the telescope's alignment by a few milliradians to enhance the clarity of the image.

  • S.D.T. Energy output is 1.8 to 3.0 joules with rate two to three milliradians.

    The Andromeda Strain (1971)

  • In surveying, the accuracy of the instrument is often expressed in milliradians for greater precision.

Surface Forms

milliradian singular
milliradians plural

Morphology

milliradian = radian (transparent) = milli + radian

The SI prefix 'milli-' meaning one thousandth combines directly with the unit 'radian', making the meaning clearly derivable.

Etymology

Milliradian joins the metric milli- meaning 'one thousandth', as in millimeter, with radian, which comes from radius meaning 'ray' or 'spoke'. So, a milliradian is a very small angle, one thousandth of a radian, which is why it is used for very precise measurements.