quizzing-glass

A gentleman raises his quizzing-glass to examine a small antique coin.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A single eyeglass: "quizzing-glass" refers to a type of monocle, often mounted on a ribbon or chain, used to examine or look at something closely. It was historically worn as a fashion accessory or for practical vision correction.
   • An instrument for scrutinizing: In a broader sense, it denotes a device for inspecting or "quizzing" (i.e., observing with curiosity or scrutiny) an object or person.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • He adjusted his quizzing-glass to read the fine print on the document. (He used a monocle to magnify the text.)
  • The gentleman raised his quizzing-glass to inspect the painting more closely. (He lifted his single eyeglass for a detailed view.)

Advanced Usage

• "to use a quizzing-glass": to employ a monocle for observation or examination.
  • She used her quizzing-glass to examine the antique vase. (She examined the vase with a monocle.)

Variants and Related Words

• Quiz (v/n): to question or examine; also, a test of knowledge.
  • The teacher will quiz the students on the lesson. (The teacher will test the students.)
• Quizzical (adj): indicating curiosity or puzzlement; also, mildly mocking.
  • He gave her a quizzical look. (He looked at her with curiosity or skepticism.)

Synonyms

• Monocle: a single eyeglass worn for vision correction or fashion.
• Lorgnette: a pair of glasses or opera glasses with a handle, sometimes used similarly.
• Eyeglass: a general term for a lens used to aid sight.

Related Idioms

• To put on one’s quizzing-glass: an old-fashioned phrase meaning to adopt a pose of critical or curious observation.
  • He put on his quizzing-glass as if to judge the newcomer. (He assumed a scrutinizing attitude.)

Notes on Usage

• This word is considered archaic or historical; it was common in the 18th and 19th centuries but is rarely used in modern English except in literary or historical contexts.