Image Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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image
[ˈɪmɪdʒ ]
Definitions
digital
A representation of the external form of a person or thing in art.
Synonyms
photo, picture, representation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| image |
Can be used in a broad sense, often implying a digital or mental visualization.
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| picture |
A general term that can refer to a painting, drawing, or photograph. Often used informally.
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| photo |
Specifically refers to a photograph, usually taken with a camera.
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| representation |
Used in formal contexts to mean an image or depiction of something, often in a conceptual or abstract way.
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Examples of usage
- Please send me the image of the new logo design.
- The artist painted a beautiful image of the sunrise.
- The image of the product on the website does not match the actual item.
computing
A file or set of files containing a digitally encoded visual depiction.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| image |
Use 'image' when generally referring to a visual representation, including illustrations, graphics, and photos. It is a broad term suitable for various mediums, whether digital or physical.
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| graphic |
The word 'graphic' is often used to describe designed elements, especially those created with design software. This term can include digital art, charts, and illustrations but usually excludes photos.
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| picture |
The term 'picture' is quite versatile and can refer to drawings, paintings, photos, and other forms of visual representation. It is often used in everyday conversation.
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| photo |
'Photo' specifically refers to a photograph taken with a camera. It is used when the visual content comes from capturing real-life scenes and objects.
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Examples of usage
- He uploaded the image to the server for processing.
- The image quality of the photograph was enhanced using editing software.
transitive
To make a representation of the external form of.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| image |
Used often in a broader sense to refer to a representation of a person or thing in a photograph, painting, or form created by technology.
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| visualize |
Used when someone creates a mental image or picture of something that is not physically present or possible to see directly.
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| depict |
Used to describe showing or representing something in a drawing, painting, or other art form.
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| portray |
Used to describe the representation of someone or something in a work of art or literature, often aiming to capture specific characteristics or qualities.
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Examples of usage
- She will image the scene in her mind for future reference.
- The artist imaged the landscape with great detail.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art History
- The concept of an image has evolved; ancient civilizations used images in cave paintings to tell stories.
- During the Renaissance, images gained importance as artists experimented with perspective, making them more lifelike.
- The invention of photography in the 19th century revolutionized how images captured reality.
Technology
- Digital images consist of pixels that contain information about colors and brightness.
- The development of image compression techniques, like JPEG, allows images to be stored and shared efficiently.
- Modern software can manipulate images in powerful ways, such as editing, filtering, and even creating 3D models.
Psychology
- Images have a strong influence on memory; we often remember visuals better than text.
- The mind can create images even without visual input, such as recalling a familiar face or place.
- Therapists sometimes use guided imagery to help clients visualize peaceful scenarios for relaxation.
Pop Culture
- In films, iconic images can symbolize themes or characters, like the 'munchkins' in 'The Wizard of Oz'.
- Social media platforms like Instagram are all about sharing images, defining trends and visual cultures.
- Advertising heavily relies on striking images to capture attention and convey messages quickly.
Origin of 'image'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'imago', meaning likeness or representation.
- In Old French, 'image' was used to describe both a representation and a statue.
- Over time, the meaning expanded to include any visual form, from paintings to digital pictures.
The word 'image' originates from the Latin word 'imago', meaning 'likeness' or 'copy'. It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to a visual representation of something. Over time, with the advancement of technology, the term 'image' has expanded to encompass digital representations in computing and art. Today, it is commonly used in various contexts to describe visual depictions and representations.