focus
UK: ˈfəʊkəs | US: ˈfoʊkəs
n. 1. The center of interest or activity.
n. 2. The clear and sharp quality of an image in a photograph or on a screen.
vt. 1. To concentrate attention or effort on something.
vi. 1. To adjust the lens of a camera or microscope to produce a clear image.
The word "focus" originates from Latin focus, meaning "fireplace" or "hearth." In ancient Roman households, the hearth was the central gathering place, symbolizing warmth and community. This concept evolved metaphorically in scientific contexts: 17th-century astronomer Johannes Kepler adopted focus to describe the central point where light rays converge in optical systems. By extension, it gained its modern abstract meanings of "central point of attention" (18th century) and "visual clarity" (19th century).
The focus of the meeting was budget planning.
Adjust the lens to bring the image into focus.
She struggled to focus on her homework with the TV on.
The camera automatically focuses on the subject’s eyes.
His research focuses on climate change impacts.