Binoculars vs. Monocle — What's the Difference?

Binoculars or field glasses are two refracting telescopes mounted side-by-side and aligned to point in the same direction, allowing the viewer to use both eyes (binocular vision) when viewing distant objects. Most binoculars are sized to be held using both hands, although sizes vary widely from opera glasses to large pedestal-mounted military models.

A monocle is a type of corrective lens used to correct or enhance the visual perception in only one eye. It consists of a circular lens, generally with a wire ring around the circumference that can be attached to a string or wire.

Relating to, used by, or involving both eyes at the same time:binocular vision.

An eyeglass for one eye.

Having two eyes arranged to produce stereoscopic vision.

A single lens, usually in a wire frame, and used to correct vision for only one eye.

OftenbinocularsAn optical device, such as a pair of field glasses or opera glasses, designed for simultaneous use by both eyes and consisting of two small telescopes joined together.

(obsolete) A one-eyed animal.

A hand-held device consisting of a series of lenses and prisms, used to magnify objects so that they can be better seen from a distance, and looked at through both eyes.

An eyeglass for one eye.

An optical instrument designed for simultaneous use by both eyes

Lens for correcting defective vision in one eye; held in place by facial muscles