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Camera: meaning, definitions and examples

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camera

 

[ˈkæmərə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

photography

A device for capturing visual images in the form of photographs, film, or video recordings.

Synonyms

camcorder, photographic device, video camera.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
camera

Generally used when referring to a device that can capture both photos and videos. Suitable for everyday use and informal contexts.

  • I bought a new camera for our vacation
camcorder

Specifically used for a device designed primarily for recording videos. Often utilized in more technical or professional contexts.

  • He used a camcorder to film the event
photographic device

A formal or technical term used to describe any device employed to capture images. Appropriate for academic or professional discussions.

  • The project requires a highly advanced photographic device
video camera

Refers specifically to a device intended for recording video footage. Used in both casual and professional contexts, but more commonly in professional settings.

  • The director used a high-definition video camera for the movie

Examples of usage

  • I always carry my camera with me when I travel.
  • She adjusted the settings on her camera before taking the photo.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A device used in broadcasting or surveillance that transmits images or video footage.

Synonyms

security camera, surveillance camera, webcam.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
camera

A general device used to take photographs or record videos, for personal or professional use.

  • She bought a new camera for her vacation.
  • The photographer adjusted the camera settings before the shoot.
surveillance camera

A camera used for continuous monitoring, often in a covert manner for security or investigative purposes. It has a slightly formal or technical tone.

  • The parking lot is monitored 24/7 by surveillance cameras.
  • The company upgraded its surveillance camera system to improve security.
security camera

A camera specifically designed to monitor and record activities for safety and security purposes, often used in public places, businesses, and homes.

  • The store installed a security camera at the entrance.
  • The footage from the security camera helped solve the crime.
webcam

A camera connected to a computer or device for real-time video communication or broadcasting over the internet.

  • She set up her webcam for the online meeting.
  • The teacher used a webcam to conduct the virtual class.

Examples of usage

  • The security camera captured the thief in action.
  • The news crew set up their camera to film the live event.
Context #3 | Verb

photography

To take photographs or film using a camera.

Synonyms

film, photograph, record.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
camera

Can also refer to the device used in a more professional or surveillance context.

  • The security camera caught the whole incident.
  • He works as a camera operator for news broadcasts.
photograph

Refers to the actual image captured by a camera, often used when describing printed images or digital photos.

  • She has a beautiful photograph of her family on the wall.
  • I took a photograph of the sunset yesterday.
film

Used when referring to a motion picture or the actual strip of material used to record images in a traditional camera.

  • We watched an amazing film at the cinema last night.
  • I need to buy some film for my old camera.
record

Employed when discussing the action of capturing video or audio, usually implies saving it for later playback.

  • Can you record the meeting for those who can't attend?
  • They recorded their wedding ceremony to watch later.

Examples of usage

  • He loves to camera wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • She enjoys cameraing landscapes during her travels.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'camera obscura,' meaning 'dark chamber,' referring to an early device to project images.
  • Its journey through languages includes influences from Italian and French, showcasing how technology evolved across cultures.
  • The term 'camera' has been used since the 16th century, indicating how long humans have expressed interest in capturing images.

History

  • The first photographic image was created in 1826 by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce using a camera.
  • Before digital cameras, film photography dominated the scene, with each photograph requiring physical film, creating a delay in seeing pictures.
  • In the 1960s, Polaroid introduced instant cameras, allowing people to see their photos just moments after taking them.

Technology

  • Modern smartphones often have powerful cameras, enabling everyday people to capture high-quality images and videos.
  • Digital cameras have sensors that convert light into electronic signals, revolutionizing how we store and edit photographs.
  • Some cameras can capture images at thousands of frames per second, allowing us to see details invisible to the naked eye.

Art

  • Photography is considered a form of art, with styles ranging from portrait and landscape to abstract and documentary.
  • The composition and lighting of a photograph can evoke emotions and tell stories, making it a powerful medium for artists.
  • Famous photographers like Ansel Adams have used the camera to highlight nature's beauty and environmental issues.

Cultural Impact

  • Cameras have played a crucial role in documenting history, from wars to celebrations, preserving moments for future generations.
  • Social media platforms have transformed how we share images, making photography a central part of our communication.
  • The rise of selfie culture has changed the way we capture and perceive our own identities through imagery.

Translations

Translations of the word "camera" in other languages:

🇵🇹 câmera

🇮🇳 कैमरा (kaimara)

🇩🇪 Kamera

🇮🇩 kamera

🇺🇦 камера

🇵🇱 kamera

🇯🇵 カメラ (kamera)

🇫🇷 caméra

🇪🇸 cámara

🇹🇷 kamera

🇰🇷 카메라 (kamera)

🇸🇦 كاميرا (kamira)

🇨🇿 kamera

🇸🇰 kamera

🇨🇳 相机 (xiàngjī)

🇸🇮 kamera

🇮🇸 myndavél

🇰🇿 камера

🇬🇪 კამერა (kamera)

🇦🇿 kamera

🇲🇽 cámara

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,614, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.