opacity
noun
opac·i·ty
ō-ˈpa-sə-tē 
plural opacities
1
a
: obscurity of sense : unintelligibility
b
: the quality or state of being mentally obtuse : dullness
2
: the quality or state of a body that makes it impervious to the rays of light
broadly
: the relative capacity of matter to obstruct the transmission of radiant energy
3
: an opaque spot in a normally transparent structure (such as the lens of the eye)
Synonyms
Examples of opacity in a Sentence
the opacity of the glass
Critics have noted the opacity of her writing style.
Recent Examples on the Web
Image: Microsoft Speaking of the shapes toolbar, Microsoft is adding the ability to change the opacity of shape fill and the outline colors.
—
Tom Warren, The Verge, 9 May 2024
The increasing opacity of state government decision making is compounded by its having data systems that are clunky and often offer only outdated information.
—Dan Walters, The Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for opacity 
Tom Warren, The Verge, 9 May 2024
The increasing opacity of state government decision making is compounded by its having data systems that are clunky and often offer only outdated information.
—Dan Walters, The Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for opacity
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'opacity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near opacity
Cite this Entry
“Opacity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opacity. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
Medical Definition
opacity
noun
opac·i·ty
ō-ˈpas-ət-ē
plural opacities
1
: the quality or state of a body that makes it impervious to the rays of light
broadly
: the relative capacity of matter to obstruct by absorption or reflection the transmission of radiant energy (as X-rays, infrared radiation, or sound)
2
: an opaque spot in a normally transparent structure (as the lens of the eye)
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share