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Photoplay Meaning in English

word

ˈfoʊtoʊˌpleɪ
FOH-toh-play
ˈfəʊtəʊˌpleɪ
FOH-toh-play

Definition

An old term for a movie or motion picture, especially used in the early 20th century. Sometimes it can also mean the script of a movie.

Usage & Nuances

Now considered archaic or historical—rarely used in modern English except when talking about early cinema. May refer to both the movie itself or its screenplay, so check context. Almost never heard in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

The museum displays old photoplay posters from silent films.

basic

She read the photoplay before watching the movie adaptation.

basic

The word photoplay was popular in newspapers a hundred years ago.

basic

He collects rare photoplay magazines from the 1920s.

natural

Nowadays, you almost never hear anyone say 'photoplay' instead of 'movie'.

natural

When talking about early Hollywood, the term 'photoplay' comes up a lot.

natural