speculum

• Substantivo que designa um espelho, geralmente de metal polido, usado em instrumentos ópticos, ou um instrumento médico destinado a dilatar uma passagem ou cavidade do corpo para exame interno.

A noun referring to a mirror, typically made of polished metal, used in optical instruments, or a medical instrument designed to dilate a bodily passage or cavity for internal examination.

1. Optical mirrorC1formalscientific

   A reflective surface, typically made of polished metal, used in optical instruments such as telescopes or microscopes.

   Espelho óptico

   • The telescope's speculum was carefully polished to improve its reflectivity.
   • Early astronomers used a speculum to focus light in their instruments.
   • The speculum in the microscope needed regular cleaning to maintain clarity.

   Sinônimosmirrorreflector

2. Medical instrumentB2formalmedical

   A tool used by doctors to widen a body opening or cavity so that the inside can be examined.

   Instrumento médico

   • The doctor used a speculum to examine the patient's ear canal.
   • A nasal speculum helps visualize the inside of the nostrils.
   • The gynecologist inserted a speculum for the pelvic exam.