First Known Use: 1725
Dictionary
camera obscura
noun cam·era ob·scu·ra \-əb-ˈskyu̇r-ə\
Definition of CAMERA OBSCURA
: a darkened enclosure having an aperture usually provided with a lens through which light from external objects enters to form an image of the objects on the opposite surface
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CAMERA OBSCURA
New Latin, literally, dark chamber
Learn More About CAMERA OBSCURA
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: camerapersonPrevious Word in the Dictionary: cameramanAll Words Near: camera obscura
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up camera obscura? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).