Definition

Noun: 1. A percept that arises from the eyes; an image in the visual system: This refers to the immediate, physical representation of something formed on the retina of the eye and processed by the brain. It is the direct result of looking at an external object or scene. 2. A mental image that is similar to a visual perception: This refers to a picture-like representation in the mind, created by memory or imagination, which resembles the experience of actually seeing something.

Usage Examples

• As a percept from the eyes:
  • The visual image of the sunset was so clear and vibrant that it took her breath away.
  • The camera lens helps to focus light and create a sharp visual image on the sensor.
• As a mental image:
  • When I read the novel, I formed a detailed visual image of the main character in my mind.
  • He tried to recall the visual image of the suspect's face from memory.

Advanced Usage

• In cognitive psychology: The term is used to discuss the difference between perception (the visual image from the eyes) and imagery (the mental visual image).
  • The study compared the brain activity involved in processing a direct visual image versus a recalled mental visual image.
• In art and design: It can refer to the overall pictorial impression created by a composition.
  • The artist's use of contrast creates a powerful and memorable visual image.

Variants and Related Words

• Visualize (verb): To form a mental visual image.
  • Athletes often visualize their performance before a competition.
• Visualization (noun): The act or process of forming a visual image in the mind, or a graphic representation of data.
  • Data visualization helps make complex statistics understandable.

Synonyms

• Sight: The faculty or power of seeing.
• Vision: The act or faculty of seeing; also a mental image.
• Picture: A representation of someone or something produced on a surface, or a mental impression.
• Mental picture: An image present in the mind.

Related Phrases

• Visual field: The entire area that can be seen when the eye is fixed on a central point.
• Visual cortex: The part of the brain responsible for processing visual information.

Noun

1. a percept that arises from the eyes; an image in the visual system
2. a mental image that is similar to a visual perception