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Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—L

Lens

(Latin, a lentil or bean). Glasses used in mathematical instruments are so called because the double convex one, which may be termed the perfect lens, is of a bean shape.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894

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More on Lens from Infoplease:

converging lens: meaning and definitions - converging lens: Definition and Pronunciation
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diverging lens: meaning and definitions - diverging lens: Definition and Pronunciation
eye lens: meaning and definitions - eye lens: Definition and Pronunciation

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