Documentary

Definition

Documentary is a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a nonfiction film, television program, or other media form that presents factual information, often with a journalistic approach. As an adjective, it describes something that is based on factual records or evidence.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɑːkjəˈmɛntəri/
• Respelling: DAH-kyuh-MEN-tuh-ree

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɒkjʊˈmɛntri/
• Respelling: DOK-yuh-MEN-tree

Etymology

The word "documentary" is derived from the Latin "documentum," meaning "example" or "lesson," from "docere" (to teach). The term evolved to refer to recorded evidence or factual presentation. It was first used in English in the early 20th century to describe factual films.

Derivatives

• Document (noun)
• Documentation (noun)
• Documentarian (noun)
• Documented (adjective)
• Undocumented (adjective)

Synonyms

• Nonfiction
• Docudrama
• Feature

Antonyms

• Fiction
• Drama
• Fantasy

Usage

The term "documentary" is often used to refer to a film or media piece that presents real-life events, issues, or stories. For example, "The documentary about climate change raised awareness of environmental issues." It is frequently used in educational and informative contexts.

Related Terms

• Biopic: A film depicting the life of a real person.
• Investigative journalism: Reporting that uncovers factual information, often on significant topics.
• Docudrama: A film or television genre that dramatizes real-life events.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A nonfictional film or media production based on factual events: Refers to media that aims to inform or educate on real-world subjects, often using recorded interviews, archival footage, and factual narration.
  • Example: "The documentary explored the history of jazz music in America."

Adjective

• Relating to or based on documents or factual evidence: Used to describe something that presents information supported by records or evidence.
  • Example: "The film took a documentary approach, using interviews and archival footage."