ˈkæmərə n. 1 an
apparatus for taking photographs, consisting of a
lightproof box to hold light-sensitive
film, a
lens,
and a
shutter mechanism,
either for still photographs or for motion-picture film. 2 Telev. a
piece of
equipment which forms an
optical image and converts it
into electrical impulses for
transmission or
storage. øcamera obscura an internally darkened box
with an
aperture for projecting
the image of an
external object on a
screen inside it. camera-ready
Printing (of copy) in a
form suitable for
immediate photographic
reproduction. in camera 1
Law in a judge's
private room. 2 privately;
not in
public. on camera (esp. of an
actor or actress)
being filmed or televised at a
particular moment. [orig. =
chamber f. L camera f. Gk kamara
vault etc.]