Definition

1. Noun:
   • A single eyeglass lens for correcting vision in one eye: A monocle is a corrective lens designed to be worn in one eye only, typically held in place without a frame or earpiece by the muscles around the eye socket.
   • A historical optical accessory: It refers to a type of eyewear, often associated with the late 19th and early 20th centuries, used primarily by men.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The gentleman adjusted his monocle to read the fine print on the document.
  • In old portraits, you often see aristocrats wearing a monocle.

Advanced Usage

• "To drop one's monocle": An expression implying surprise or shock, often used humorously to describe a reaction.
  • The audacious proposal made him drop his monocle in disbelief.

Variants and Related Words

• Lorgnette (n): A pair of eyeglasses or opera glasses held by a long handle, used similarly for fashion or vision correction but distinct from a single lens.
• Pince-nez (n): Eyeglasses that clip onto the bridge of the nose without earpieces, a related historical style of eyewear.

Synonyms

• Eyeglass (when referring to a single lens): A general term for a lens used to correct vision.
• Lens: The optical component itself.

Related Phrases

• Monocle cord: A chain or cord attached to a monocle to prevent it from being dropped.
  • His monocle hung from a fine silk cord around his neck.

Related Idioms

• "With a monocle firmly in place": Suggesting an attitude of scrutiny, aristocracy, or old-fashioned formality.
  • He examined the artifact with a monocle firmly in place, like a museum curator from another era.

Noun

1. lens for correcting defective vision in one eye; held in place by facial muscles