I. -ptik, -ptēk adjective
also syn·op·ti·cal p-tə̇kəl, -ptēk-
Etymology: Greek synoptikos, from synoptos (verbal of synopsesthai ) + -ikos -ic, -ical
1. : affording a general view of a whole
synoptic presentation of a physical theory
2. : manifesting or characterized by comprehensiveness or breadth of view
synoptic genius of Shakespeare
3.
a. : affording, presenting, or taking the same or common view
b. often capitalized : of or relating to the first three Gospels of the New Testament as being distinguished from the fourth by their many agreements in subject, order, and language
the synoptic Gospels
synoptic sayings
4. : relating to or displaying atmospheric and weather conditions as they exist simultaneously over a broad area
synoptic study of polar air masses
synoptic chart
• syn·op·ti·cal·ly -ptə̇k(ə)lē, -ptēk-, -li adverb
II. noun
( -s )
Usage: often capitalized
: any of the synoptic Gospels