n. & adj.
--n.
1. a the art of drawing solid objects on a two-dimensional surface so as to give the right impression of relative positions, size, etc. b a picture drawn in this way.
2 the apparent relation between visible objects as to position, distance, etc.
3 a mental view of the relative importance of things (keep the right perspective).
4 a geographical or imaginary prospect.
--adj. of or in perspective.
Phrases and idioms:
in perspective
1. drawn or viewed according to the rules of perspective.
2 correctly regarded in terms of relative importance.
Derivatives:
perspectival adj. perspectively adv.
Etymology: ME f. med.L perspectiva (ars art) f. perspicere perspect- (as PER-, specere spect- look)