nondistorted

Nondistorted is an adjective meaning not distorted; free from alterations that would misrepresent form, shape, tone, or content. It is used to describe representations—visual, sonic, or data—that faithfully reproduce the original subject or signal within the limits of the medium and measurement.

In photography and optics, nondistorted refers to an image or lens performance with minimal geometric distortion, so straight lines remain straight and sizes are proportionally represented across the field of view. Lenses and cameras are often characterized by distortion coefficients or by calibration procedures that reduce barrel and pincushion distortion to achieve nondistorted output.

In audio, nondistorted sound preserves the original waveform as closely as possible, without introducing harmonic or intermodulation distortion or clipping. Equipment is rated for low distortion, often expressed as a percentage of total harmonic distortion (THD) at a given level. A nondistorted signal is desirable in high-fidelity playback and professional recording.

In signal processing and communications, nondistorted transmission means the received signal matches the transmitted one within tolerances set by the system, absent nonlinear perturbations, noise, or attenuation that alter amplitude and phase. Techniques such as equalization, shielding, and error correction help maintain nondistortion.

In broader usage, nondistorted can describe objective or minimally biased representations of information, from scientific measurements to documentary visuals, though perfect nondistortion is rarely achievable; the term signals a standard of fidelity. The precise criteria for nondistortion vary by field and application.