periscope

[/ˈperɪskoʊp/]
nounmasculinepl: periscopes
periscopio
1. An optical instrument consisting of a tube with mirrors or prisms at each end, allowing a person to see objects that are not in the direct line of sight
The submarine captain looked through the periscope to observe the surface.
O capitão do submarino olhou através do periscopio para observar a superfície.
2. A device or system that provides a view of something otherwise hidden or obscured
They used a periscope to see over the tall fence without being noticed.
Eles usaram um periscopio para ver por cima do muro alto sem serem notados.
The periscope is strongly associated with submarine warfare and military history. In Brazil and Portugal, it's primarily used in military, educational, and scientific contexts. The term has become somewhat metaphorical in modern usage, referring to any method of observing without being seen.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
scopeviewing deviceoptical instrument

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
periscopio
Standard term used in Brazil
Portugal
periscopio
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; also used in technical contexts

Related Words

submarineprismmirroropticstelescopemicroscope

Related Idioms & Phrases

looking through a periscope - observing from a hidden or concealed position
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