- pronunciation:
- fo
k
s
- parts of speech:
- noun, verb
- features:
- Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word History, Word Explorer
| part of speech: |
noun |
| inflections: |
foci, focuses |
| definition: |
the area of greatest attention or activity.
The focus of the report was the change occurring in the economy.- similar words:
- center
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| related words: |
angle, issue |
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| part of speech: |
verb |
| inflections: |
focuses, focusses, focusing, focussing, focused, focussed |
| definition 1: |
to turn or move to make a clear image.
Lee focused the camera lens.
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| definition 2: |
to direct to a central point.
You should focus your attention on your driving. |
| definition 3: |
to direct your attention to something.
She couldn't focus on her work with all the noise.- similar words:
- concentrate
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| related words: |
aim |
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| derivation: |
focused (adj.) |
In Latin,
focus means "hearth" or "fireplace." It entered English in the 1600s as word for the point where rays of light meet. The meaning "center of activity or energy" came into use in the 1700s. Because the hearth was for centuries the center of home life, it is not surprising that, today, several of the meanings of "focus" have something to do with a center or meeting point.