Widescreen: meaning, definitions and examples
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widescreen
[ ˈwaɪdˌskrin ]
screen format
Widescreen refers to a format for video and film that has a wider aspect ratio than traditional screens, generally defined as having a ratio of 16:9 or wider. This format tends to fill more of the viewer's field of vision, providing a more immersive experience. It is commonly used in modern televisions, computer monitors, and film production, allowing for cinematic presentations of content. The transition to widescreen gained popularity in the late 20th century, leading to its widespread adoption in both home entertainment systems and theaters.
Synonyms
extended screen, panoramic, wide aspect
Examples of usage
- I prefer watching movies in widescreen format.
- The new TV has a fantastic widescreen display.
- Widescreen films offer a more cinematic experience.
- My computer monitor supports widescreen resolution.
Translations
Translations of the word "widescreen" in other languages:
🇵🇹 widescreen
🇮🇳 वाइडस्क्रीन
🇩🇪 Breitbild
🇮🇩 layar lebar
🇺🇦 широкий екран
🇵🇱 szeroki ekran
🇯🇵 ワイドスクリーン
🇫🇷 grand écran
🇪🇸 pantalla ancha
🇹🇷 geniş ekran
🇰🇷 와이드스크린
🇸🇦 شاشة عريضة
🇨🇿 širokoúhlý
🇸🇰 širokouhlý
🇨🇳 宽屏
🇸🇮 široki zaslon
🇮🇸 breiðsýn
🇰🇿 кең экран
🇬🇪 სქელი ეკრანი
🇦🇿 geniş ekran
🇲🇽 pantalla ancha
Etymology
The term 'widescreen' emerged in the early 20th century as filmmakers sought to create a more expansive viewing experience that could captivate audiences. Initially, various techniques were tried to achieve a wider cinematic image, but the modern concept of widescreen began to solidify in the 1950s with the introduction of processes like CinemaScope and Panavision, which provided films with wider aspect ratios. This innovation was a response to the growing popularity of television, as filmmakers aimed to draw audiences back into theaters by offering a more visually striking alternative. As technology progressed, widescreen became the standard for both cinema and home video formats. The move to digital formats further cemented widescreen's dominance, making it a common aspect of modern media consumption.