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Pixel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pixel

[ˈpɪksəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

digital image

A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image or graphic that can be displayed and edited on a computer screen. Pixels are typically represented as squares and combine to form images on screens of various sizes. The term is a portmanteau of 'picture element.' Each pixel contains color information, which contributes to the overall visual of the image. The resolution of an image is often described in terms of the number of pixels it contains.

Synonyms

cell, dot, picture element.

Examples of usage

  • The image quality improves with a higher pixel count.
  • Adjust the pixel settings in the graphics software for better results.
  • Each pixel on the display has its own color value.
  • Photos get grainy when you zoom in too much on individual pixels.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Modern screens can have millions of pixels, allowing for incredibly detailed images.
  • The resolution of a display is determined by the number of pixels it contains, affecting image clarity.
  • Higher pixel density, measured in pixels per inch (PPI), leads to sharper visuals, especially on small screens like smartphones.

Art and Design

  • In digital art, artists often create images using a limited number of pixels, leading to a style known as pixel art.
  • Pixel art became popular in video games in the 1980s and is celebrated for its nostalgic charm.
  • Designers must consider pixel dimensions carefully to ensure their work looks good on various devices.

Pop Culture

  • The video game industry has a rich history tied to pixel graphics, with iconic titles like 'Super Mario Bros.' showcasing their charm.
  • Modern animations occasionally use pixel animation to evoke a retro style and connect with earlier digital aesthetics.
  • The rise of memes has encouraged creative uses of pixelation in humor, often as a way to distort images for comedic effect.

Psychology

  • Screens filled with bright pixels can evoke emotional responses, influencing moods while watching videos or playing games.
  • The clarity provided by numerous pixels impacts viewer engagement and retention during educational media.
  • Research shows that picture clarity can affect learning in young children, contributing to better retention of information.

Origin of 'pixel'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pixel' comes from the combination of 'picture' and 'element.'
  • It was first used in the 1960s and started in the field of television and computer graphics.
  • Earlier terms included 'pel' (picture element), highlighting its role in forming images.

The term 'pixel' originated around 1965, combining the words 'pic' (from picture) and 'el' (from element), which referred to the minimal unit of a digital image. The increasing usage of digital graphics and image processing led to the term becoming more widespread. As technology has advanced, especially in fields such as computer graphics, photography, and video, the significance of pixels has grown tremendously. Pixels are now fundamental to resolution and image quality, making their understanding critical for anyone working with digital media. With the advent of high-definition displays and the increased focus on graphic design and illustration, the concept and application of pixels have become more prominent than ever.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,556, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.