camera
Pluralcameras
- 1A tool you use to take photos or to record videos.
Like an eye that remembers everything it sees.
She bought a new camera for the trip.
Point the camera at the dog and press the button.
UsageBeing filmed is on camera: caught on camera.
- 2The point of view that shows you the action in a video game or 3D world.
Like a floating eye that shows you what is happening in the game.
In this game, you can turn the camera to look around the room.
The camera follows your character as you run.
Similarview, viewpoint, perspective
Note
- 3A judge's private room, now used almost only in the phrase in camera, meaning heard in private.
Like a private office where a judge can talk with no one else listening.
The judge heard the child's story in camera, with no reporters in the room.
Part of the trial was held in camera to protect the witness.
UsageDo not confuse in camera (in private) with on camera (being filmed).
Similarchambers
Note
Less common meaning
- 4A room with a curved, arched ceiling.
Note
Practice
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Origin
From Latin camera, meaning "chamber" or "room." The device is named after the camera obscura ("dark chamber"), a dark room or box that shows an outside scene through a small hole or lens.
Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 4 facts
- Camera derives from Latin camera, meaning chamber or room. en.wiktionary.org
- The device's name comes from camera obscura. en.wiktionary.org
- Camera obscura means dark chamber. en.wiktionary.org
- A camera obscura is a dark room or box showing an outside scene through a small hole or lens. micro.magnet.fsu.edu