kaleidoscope

ka·lei·do·scope  (k-ld-skp)

n.

1. A tube-shaped optical instrument that is rotated to produce a succession of symmetrical designs by means of mirrors reflecting the constantly changing patterns made by bits of colored glass at one end of the tube.

2. A constantly changing set of colors.

3. A series of changing phases or events: a kaleidoscope of illusions.

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[Greek kalos, beautiful + eidos, form; see weid- in Indo-European roots + -scope.]

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ka·leido·scopic (-skpk), ka·leido·scopi·cal adj.

ka·leido·scopi·cal·ly adv.

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kaleidoscope

Noun

1. a tube-shaped toy lined with angled mirrors and containing loose pieces of coloured paper that form intricate patterns when viewed through a hole in the end

2. any complicated or rapidly changing set of colours, circumstances, etc.: a kaleidoscope of shifting political groups and alliances [Greek kalos beautiful + eidos form + skopein to look at]

kaleidoscopic adj

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kaleidoscope

an optical device composed of bits of colored glass and several reflecting surfaces that presents to the viewer symmetrical patterns when shaken or rotated. — kaleidoscopic, adj.

See also: Instruments

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	kaleidoscope - a complex pattern of constantly changing colors and shapes pattern, form, shape - a perceptual structure; "the composition presents problems for students of musical form"; "a visual pattern must include not only objects but the spaces between them"
	2.	kaleidoscope - an optical toy in a tube; it produces symmetrical patterns as bits of colored glass are reflected by mirrors plaything, toy - an artifact designed to be played with

Translations

kaleidoscope [kəˈlaɪdəskəup] n → calidoscopio

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kaleidoscope [kəˈlaɪdəskəup] n → kaléidoscope m

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kaleidoscope [kəˈlaɪdəskəup] n → Kaleidoskop nt

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kaleidoscope [kəˈlaɪdəskəup] n → caleidoscopio