mirror
UK: ˈmɪrə | US: ˈmɪrər
n. a reflective surface, typically glass coated with metal, that reflects a clear image
vt. to reflect or resemble closely
mirror = mir<look> + or<noun suffix>
- mir (from Latin mirari "to look at, wonder at") → Retains the core idea of "seeing" or "reflecting."
- or (noun-forming suffix in Latin-derived words) → Indicates an object or tool (e.g., reflector).
Etymology Origin:
The word mirror traces back to Old French mirour, from Latin mirari ("to admire/look at"). The root mir- evolved from the Latin verb’s focus on visual observation, later narrowing to mean a reflective surface. The suffix -or (via Old French -our) solidified its function as an object. The modern sense of "reflection" emerged by the 13th century, aligning with technological advances in glassmaking.
She glanced at herself in the mirror before leaving.
The lake mirrored the surrounding mountains perfectly.
His actions mirror his father’s behavior.
The artist used a convex mirror to distort the image.
The documentary mirrors societal struggles accurately.