diorama

views updated Jun 27 2018

di·o·ram·a / ˌdīəˈramə; -ˈrä-/ • n. a model representing a scene with three-dimensional figures, either in miniature or as a large-scale museum exhibit. ∎  chiefly hist. a scenic painting, viewed through a peephole, in which changes in color and direction of illumination simulate changes in the weather, time of day, etc. ∎  a miniature movie set used for special effects or animation.

diorama

views updated May 14 2018

diorama.
1. Large picture given additional reality by optical illusions and illumination, and viewed through an aperture in a dark room. It underwent repeated changes by the operation of modified light on its transparent and semi-transparent surface.

2. Building specially constructed for such a picture, sometimes with a revolving circular room for spectators.

diorama

views updated Jun 08 2018

diorama XIX. f. DI- 3 + Gr. hórāma view, f. horân see.