Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mirage

noun

/məˈrɑːʒ/

Definition

An optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, especially in deserts or on hot roads, where distant objects appear distorted or displaced.

Examples

As they walked through the desert, they spotted what looked like a lake ahead, but it was just a mirage.
The heat of the summer day created a mirage that made the asphalt look shimmering and wet.

Meaning

A mirage is often seen as a pool of water or a reflection of the sky, but it does not exist in reality. It occurs when light rays bend due to temperature differences in the air.