Cinema

Definition

Cinema is a noun that refers to both the art of making motion pictures, often called filmmaking, and the physical location where films are shown to audiences, such as a movie theater. It is commonly used to describe the film industry as well as the visual storytelling medium.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪnəmə/
• Respelling: SIN-uh-muh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪnɪmə/
• Respelling: SIN-ih-muh

Etymology

The word "cinema" originates from the French term "cinématographe," which was an early name for a motion-picture projector. This term derived from the Greek "kinēma," meaning "movement" or "motion," related to "kinein," meaning "to move." It was shortened to "cinéma" in French and then adopted into English in the early 20th century.

Derivatives

• Cinematic (adjective)
• Cinematography (noun)
• Cinematographer (noun)
• Cinemagoer (noun)
• Cinematographic (adjective)

Synonyms

• Film
• Movie theater
• Motion picture

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "cinema" is commonly used to refer to the film industry, movie theaters, and the art of filmmaking. For example, "She went to the cinema to watch a new release," or "Cinema has a powerful influence on culture."

Related Terms

• Film: A motion picture or movie.
• Screen: The surface onto which a film is projected in a cinema.
• Theater: A building or room where films are shown to audiences.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The art or industry of making films: Refers to the creative process and industry involved in producing motion pictures.
  • Example: "Cinema has evolved with advancements in technology."
• A place where films are shown: Refers to a movie theater or location where audiences view films on a large screen.
  • Example: "They met at the local cinema to watch the latest blockbuster."
• The medium or culture of film: Describes the collective art form, style, and storytelling approach of films as an influential part of culture.
  • Example: "French cinema is known for its unique approach to storytelling."