Camcorder: meaning, definitions and examples

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camcorder

 

[ˈkæmˌkɔrdər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

video recording device

A camcorder is a portable electronic device used for recording video and audio. It typically has a built-in microphone and a digital camera to capture high-quality footage. Camcorders are commonly used by videographers, filmmakers, and amateurs to create videos for various purposes.

Synonyms

handycam, video camera, videocamera.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
camcorder

Useful for general contexts involving recording video and audio, often for personal or amateur use. Appropriate for mentioning any small, portable video recording device.

  • I brought my camcorder to the family reunion to capture all the fun moments
video camera

A more formal term that can be used in both professional and casual settings. It emphasizes the primary function of the device—capturing video footage.

  • The journalists set up a video camera to film the press conference
handycam

Originally a brand name by Sony, but now often used generically to describe small, handheld video cameras that are easy to operate. Often seen as a more modern and portable option.

  • She used her new handycam to document her travels through Europe
videocamera

Less commonly used in everyday conversation; might be seen in more technical or formal contexts, or when noting the device's technical aspects.

  • The new model of the videocamera features enhanced image stabilization technology

Examples of usage

  • She used her camcorder to film the school play.
  • The camcorder has a zoom feature for capturing distant objects.
  • They rented a professional camcorder for the wedding.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'camcorder' is a combination of 'camera' and 'recorder', coined in the 1980s.
  • Before camcorders, people used separate cameras and tape recorders, which were bulkier.
  • The first consumer camcorder was introduced in 1983, changing how families captured memories.

Technology

  • Camcorders have evolved from using tapes to digital storage, making them easier to use and edit.
  • Modern camcorders often include features like optical zoom, image stabilization, and built-in editing functions.
  • Some camcorders now come with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing instant sharing of videos on social media.

Cultural Impact

  • They revolutionized home movies, empowering families to document birthdays, holidays, and special moments.
  • The rise of YouTube has turned many users into amateur filmmakers, using camcorders for content creation.
  • Camcorders have played a role in documenting significant events, from weddings to protests, creating visual history.

Art

  • Video art, an emerging form in contemporary art, often uses camcorders as a medium for expression.
  • Filmmakers worldwide, both amateur and professional, rely on camcorders for capturing powerful stories.
  • The visual language of camcorders influences everything from independent films to high-budget movie productions.

Psychology

  • Recording personal experiences can have therapeutic effects, helping individuals process their memories.
  • Visual and auditory memories captured on camcorders engage different parts of the brain, enhancing processing.
  • Watching footage months or years later can evoke nostalgia and reinforce personal identity.

Translations

Translations of the word "camcorder" in other languages:

🇵🇹 filmadora

🇮🇳 कैमकॉर्डर

🇩🇪 Videokamera

🇮🇩 Kamera video

🇺🇦 відеокамера

🇵🇱 kamera wideo

🇯🇵 ビデオカメラ

🇫🇷 caméscope

🇪🇸 videocámara

🇹🇷 video kamera

🇰🇷 캠코더

🇸🇦 كاميرا فيديو

🇨🇿 videokamera

🇸🇰 videokamera

🇨🇳 摄像机

🇸🇮 videokamera

🇮🇸 myndavél

🇰🇿 бейнекамера

🇬🇪 ვიდეოკამერა

🇦🇿 videokamera

🇲🇽 videocámara

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,940 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.