op art

UK: /ˈɒpɑːt/ US: /ˈɑp ˈɑrt/

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

op art /ˈɑp ˈɑrt/  n. [uncountable]

1. Fine Art abstract art in which lines, forms, and space are arranged to produce visual effects, as apparent movement.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

op′ art′, 

1. Fine Art a style of abstract art in which lines, forms, and space are organized in such a way as to provide optical illusions of an ambiguous nature, as alternately advancing and receding squares on a flat surface. Also, Op′ Art′. Also called op, optical art. 

• op(tical) 1960–65

op′-art′, adj. 
op′ art′ist. 

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

op art / ɒp/ noun

1. a style of abstract art chiefly concerned with the exploitation of optical effects such as the illusion of movement

Etymology: 20th Century: op, short for optical