óculos

Óculos, commonly known as eyeglasses or spectacles, are vision correction devices designed primarily to enhance or restore a person's eyesight. They typically consist of lenses mounted in a frame that is worn on the face, resting on the nose and ears. The lenses are shaped to refract light in a specific way, compensating for refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia.

The history of óculos dates back to at least the 13th century in Italy, where early forms were developed using convex lenses for farsightedness. Over centuries, advancements in lens grinding and frame design led to more sophisticated and comfortable eyewear. The materials used for frames have evolved from simple wood and leather to metals like steel and titanium, and plastics such as acetate and nylon.

Modern óculos serve not only functional purposes but also as fashion accessories. They come in a vast array of styles, shapes, and colors to suit individual preferences and trends. Beyond vision correction, tinted lenses in óculos can provide protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and reduce glare, as seen in sunglasses. Prescription sunglasses offer both vision correction and sun protection. Bifocal and progressive lenses allow for correction of multiple vision issues within a single lens. The prescription for óculos is determined by an optometrist or ophthalmologist after an eye examination.