Speculum definitions and example sentences on Wordnik

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Definitions (20)

noun A mirror or polished metal plate used as a reflector in optical instruments.
noun An instrument for dilating the opening of a body cavity for medical examination.
noun Zoology A bright, often iridescent patch of color on the wings of certain birds, especially ducks.

Having made a wooden pattern for my intended 8-inch diameter speculum, and moulded it in sand, I cast this my first reflecting telescope speculum according to the best book instructions. — James Nasmyth: Engineer, An Autobiography.
In the new movie, Goyer also milks an eye-doctor scene for maximum weirdness by arranging to pry open Yustman's eyelids with a gleaming medical instrument called a speculum. — Wired Top Stories
After positioning a full mouth speculum, the mouth is rinsed and all surfaces of the canine teeth, tongue, cheeks, and palate are examined for abnormalities. — TheHorse.com News
In considering that one physician cataloged 75 fact, the introduction of the speculum was pages of possible symptoms of hysteria and far more controversial than that of the called the list incomplete [2]; almost any vibrator, [1] perhaps because of its phallic ailment could fit the diagnosis. — Recently Uploaded Slideshows
You'll feel pressure (not pain - inform your doctor if it really hurts!) as the speculum is opened, which allows the physician to isolate the cervix and peer into the vagina. — LAist