focal

adjective

fo·​cal ˈfō-kəl How to pronounce focal (audio)
: of, relating to, being, or having a focus
focally adverb

Examples of focal in a Sentence

a focal figure in the movement
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are two types of vitiligo: focal, which affects only one area; and generalized, which causes white patches across the body. Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 July 2025 Functionality: The main features of this lens are the focal range and maximum aperture. James Abbott, Space.com, 27 May 2025 Treatments have similarly evolved, emphasizing active surveillance of low-risk cancers and minimally invasive focal therapies. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 22 May 2025 The researchers found that sound expanded the size of the sites where cells attached to surrounding tissues, most likely by activating an enzyme called focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which senses mechanical forces and helps to guide tissue development. Simon Makin, Scientific American, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for focal

Word History

First Known Use

1676, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of focal was in 1676

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Cite this Entry

“Focal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/focal. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

focal

adjective
fo·​cal ˈfō-kəl How to pronounce focal (audio)
: of, relating to, or having a focus
focally adverb

Medical Definition

focal

adjective
fo·​cal ˈfō-kəl How to pronounce focal (audio)
: of, relating to, being, or having a focus
focally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on focal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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