Movie theater Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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movie theater

[ˈmuːvi ˈθiːətər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

entertainment

A movie theater is a place where people go to watch films on a big screen. It typically has rows of seats facing the screen, and the audience pays for tickets to see the movie. Movie theaters often offer snacks and drinks for purchase.

Synonyms

cinema, film theater, movie house.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
movie theater	Commonly used in American English to refer to places where movies are shown to the public. We're going to the movie theater tonight to watch the new superhero film. The movie theater downtown has the best popcorn.
cinema	Commonly used in British English and often refers to the art of movie-making as well as the place where movies are shown. I love going to the cinema on weekends. The new cinema in town has very comfortable seats.
movie house	Sounds a bit old-fashioned and might be used nostalgically or in historical contexts. Back in the day, the old movie house was the town's main attraction. The vintage movie house has been converted into a community center.
film theater	Less common and can sound more formal or old-fashioned. It conveys the same meaning as 'movie theater' but might be used for specific or classic film showings. The film theater is showing a series of classic noir films this month. We have a film theater at the art center that features independent films.

Examples of usage

I love going to the movie theater to see the latest blockbusters.
We decided to go to the movie theater for a fun night out.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The first public film screening took place in Paris in 1895, marking the birth of cinema as we know it.
The term 'movie theater' gained popularity in the 1930s as films became a major form of entertainment worldwide.

Technology

Movie theaters originally used silent films, which were accompanied by live music to enhance the experience.
The invention of sound films in the late 1920s revolutionized the industry, making dialogues and sound effects part of the storytelling.

Cultural Impact

Movie theaters serve as cultural hubs, showcasing films that reflect social changes and community values.
The experience of watching movies in a theater fosters a shared social experience, bringing people together through storytelling.

Artistic Elements

Cinematography, the art of capturing moving images, plays a crucial role in shaping how stories are told on screen.
Screenwriters, directors, and actors collaborate to create immersive experiences that engage diverse audiences.

Pop Culture

Certain movies released during summer or holiday seasons consistently break box office records, showcasing the industry's economic side.
Film festivals like Cannes and Sundance elevate independent films, proving that not all great films come from major studios.

Origin of 'movie theater'

The concept of the movie theater dates back to the late 19th century when the first public screening of films took place. Since then, movie theaters have evolved to become popular entertainment venues where people gather to watch films together. The experience of going to the movies has become a cherished pastime for many, with the movie theater industry playing a significant role in the cultural landscape.