Mi-rāge', n.

(mī-räzh'), n. [Fr., from mirer, to look at carefully, to aim, se mirer, to look at one's self in a glass, to reflect, to be reflected. See MIRROR.] An optical illusion arising from an unequal refraction in the lower strata of the atmosphere, and causing remote objects to be seen double, as if reflected in a mirror, or to appear as if suspended in the air. It is frequently seen in deserts, presenting the appearance of water. The fata Morgana and looming are species of mirage.