Zoom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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zoom

[zuหm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

video conferencing

A software application that allows users to meet virtually through video and audio communication. It is commonly used for online meetings, webinars, and virtual social gatherings.

Synonyms

video conferencing software, virtual meeting platform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
zoom

Repeated entry, same as the first entry.

video conferencing software

This is a generic term for any software that allows video meetings. This phrase is used in more formal or technical contexts where specifying the brand is unnecessary or multiple options may be considered.

  • The company uses various video conferencing software to stay connected with remote employees.
  • Please ensure your video conferencing software is updated before the call.
virtual meeting platform

This term broadly describes any platform or service used for hosting online meetings, webinars, or virtual events. It emphasizes the platform aspect and can be used in both professional and general contexts.

  • Microsoft Teams is a highly effective virtual meeting platform.
  • We will be using a virtual meeting platform for the upcoming conference.

Examples of usage

  • We had a Zoom meeting with the team.
  • The webinar will be conducted via Zoom.
  • She joined the virtual party on Zoom.
  • Zoom has become a popular platform for remote work.
  • I'll send you the Zoom link for the meeting.
Context #2 | Verb

to focus on a specific subject

To concentrate or focus on a particular subject, often by using a magnifying glass or a camera lens. It can also refer to the act of making something appear larger or clearer.

Synonyms

enlarge, focus on, magnify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
zoom

Use this word when you want to quickly make an object appear closer within a digital environment, like a camera or a software application.

  • I used the zoom function on my camera to get a better shot of the bird.
  • Can you zoom in on that section of the map?
magnify

Appropriate for describing the action of making an object appear larger, especially when using a magnifying glass or in a scientific context. It can also be used figuratively to mean exaggerating something.

  • The microscope can magnify the cells up to 1000 times.
  • Don't magnify the problem; it's not that serious.
focus on

Use this phrase when you want to draw concentrated attention to a particular area or subject, often used in both optical and figurative contexts.

  • She asked the photographer to focus on her face.
  • Let's focus on the main issue at hand.
enlarge

This word is used when you want to increase the size of something, typically in print or display mediums, such as photographs or documents.

  • Can you enlarge this photo so we can see the details better?
  • He enlarged the text on the page to make it more readable.

Examples of usage

  • I need to zoom in on this detail.
  • The camera operator will zoom in on the actor's face.
  • Let's zoom in on the important points of the presentation.
  • She used the magnifying glass to zoom in on the tiny text.
  • The satellite can zoom in to capture detailed images.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Since the COVID-19 pandemic, 'Zoom' has become a popular video conferencing tool, transforming how people connect for work and socializing.
  • The platform was founded in 2011 by Eric Yuan, a former executive at Cisco WebEx.
  • During the first quarter of 2020, Zoom's daily users skyrocketed from 10 million to over 300 million due to increased demand for virtual communication.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of cartoons, 'Zoom' often describes superheroes or characters who can move at super speed.
  • The term is frequently used in gaming, particularly in racing games, where players can 'zoom' past competitors.
  • Thereโ€™s a well-known children's game show called 'Zoom' that encourages creativity and participation from young viewers.

Science

  • In biology, the word is sometimes used to describe the rapid movement of animals, showcasing their agility and survival techniques.
  • Zooming in on images in microscopy allows scientists to see tiny details of cells and organisms that are not visible to the naked eye.

Education

  • During the remote learning shift, many educational institutions relied on Zoom to conduct classes, emphasizing the importance of digital platforms in modern learning.
  • Educators found that Zoom features, like breakout rooms and screen sharing, facilitated interactive and engaging learning experiences.

Origin of 'zoom'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'zoom' first appeared in English in the early 20th century, originally as a sound to describe fast movement.
  • It is believed that 'zoom' imitates the sound of something moving quickly, similar to how we hear cars or planes.
  • In photography, โ€˜zoomโ€™ refers to adjusting the lens to make an object appear larger or closer.

The word 'zoom' originated in the early 20th century as an onomatopoeic term imitating the sound of something moving quickly. It was first used in the context of cameras and lenses to describe the action of moving closer to a subject or making it appear larger. With the rise of video conferencing technology, 'Zoom' became a household name in the 21st century, synonymous with virtual meetings and online communication.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,201, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.