Frame
FRAYM
/freɪm/
The rigid structural border that holds lenses in place on a pair of eyeglasses; or to enclose in a border.
In optometry, refers specifically to titanium, plastic, or wire structures resting on the ears and nose.
The story behind the word. From Old English 'framian' (to profit, avail) and Old Norse 'fremja' (to accomplish). Over centuries, it evolved from describing a functional timber structure into any border holding an object like a picture or optical lens.
Word relationships
- rims: Refers specifically to the circular outer edges holding individual lenses.
- mount: Technical term for the structural spectacle assembly.
Commonly confused with
- Rimless: Rimless glasses lack a full surrounding frame, mounting components directly to the lenses.
Word family
- framing (noun): The border or structure surrounding something.
- frameless (adjective): Lacking a surrounding frame.
Collocations
- eyeglass frame
- lightweight frame
- metal frame
Example sentences
- "She selected a lightweight titanium frame that complemented the shape of her face." Eyewear selection
Memory hook
A FRAME holds the picture or the lens in place. Lens-holding border.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'frame of mind' or structural framing in construction without clarifying context.
Fun facts
- Early 14th-century spectacle frames were made from carved bone, horn, or leather hinged together.
Explore more words
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.