Shutter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shutter
[ˈʃʌtər ]
Definitions
window covering
A shutter is a solid or slatted covering usually hinged or mounted to the exterior of a window. They can be opened or closed to control light and air flow into a building. Shutters often serve an aesthetic purpose as well, enhancing the overall appearance of a home. They can be made from wood, vinyl, or metal, and are available in various styles and colors. Additionally, shutters provide privacy and security by acting as a barrier against intruders.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I closed the shutters to keep the sun out.
- The house looked lovely with new decorative shutters.
- He installed wooden shutters on the front windows.
camera mechanism
In photography, a shutter refers to a device that opens and closes to expose the camera sensor to light. The duration that the shutter remains open is crucial in determining the exposure of the photograph. Shutter speed can significantly affect the outcome of a shot, influencing the image's brightness and ability to freeze motion. Different types of shutters, such as focal-plane and leaf shutters, are used in various camera systems to achieve desired effects.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I adjusted the shutter speed to capture the fast-moving subjects.
- The camera's shutter makes a clicking sound when taking a picture.
- The photographer experimented with different shutter settings.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'shutter' comes from the Medieval Latin 'scutarium', meaning a shield or cover, highlighting its protective function.
- Originally, shutters were made of solid wood, serving both aesthetic and security purposes long before glass windows were common.
Architecture
- Architectural designs around the world often feature shutters as a way to enhance ventilation without compromising privacy.
- In Mediterranean regions, you often find colorful shutters on houses, offering style in addition to function.
Photography
- In photography, a 'shutter' refers to the mechanism that opens and closes to allow light to hit the camera's sensor, crucial for capturing images.
- The speed of the shutter can influence a photo, determining how much light enters and how motion is captured.
Culture and Art
- In many films, the act of opening or closing shutters often symbolizes emotional transitions or revelations.
- Artists have often used shutters in their work to explore themes of concealment and revelation, depicting literal and metaphorical barriers.
Technology
- Modern electronic shutters in cameras can achieve speeds up to 1/4000 of a second, allowing for sharp capture of fast-moving objects.
- Smart homes now incorporate automated shutters that can respond to sunlight, improving energy efficiency and enhancing comfort.
Origin of 'shutter'
The word 'shutter' is derived from the Middle English term 'shuttere', which meant a screen or a cover. This term itself has its roots in the Old English word 'scyld', meaning a shield or protection. Over time, the usage of the word evolved, coming to refer specifically to the devices that cover windows and provide protection against elements and intruders. The concept of shutters has existed for centuries, with various cultures adopting different styles and functions. In modern usage, 'shutter' also encompasses its application in photography, illustrating the technological advancements and broadening of the term's scope.