The purpose of this Standard is to define commonly used terms, symbols and abbreviations for fiber optic applications.

Terms are arranged in alphabetical order and definitions follow the listed term without repeating the term. If a term consists of two or more words, and its modifiers and the generic word form a single concept, the terms have been alphabetized with the modifier as the initial word. The meanings of some terms differ in the context in which they are used, thus requiring more than one definition. A definition appears with a preferred term. Variations are included in the alphabetical list with cross reference to the preferred term. The designation See also: following a definition draws attention to related terms.