ZOETROPE Meaning and
Definition
-
A zoetrope is a cylindrical device consisting of a series of evenly spaced vertical slits on its surface, through which a sequence of images or drawings can be viewed. It is a precursor to modern animation and is primarily used as an entertainment device. The zoetrope operates on the principle of persistence of vision, whereby the rapid succession of images creates an illusion of continuous motion.
The zoetrope typically contains a strip of paper or other transparent material with a sequence of still images or drawings, called frames, printed on it. When the zoetrope is spun, the viewer looks through the slits as the images move past, creating an impression of animation. The faster the zoetrope spins, the smoother and more fluid the motion appears.
The term "zoetrope" is derived from the Greek words "zoe," meaning "life," and "tropos," meaning "turn." Thus, a zoetrope literally translates to "wheel of life" or "wheel of turning life." The device was invented in the early 19th century and gained popularity as a form of amusement and visual entertainment.
Today, zoetropes are considered valuable artifacts representing the history of animation and have become collector's items. They have also served as an inspiration for modern forms of animation and continue to be appreciated for their ingenuity and contribution to the development of the moving image.
Common Misspellings for ZOETROPE
Etymology of ZOETROPE
The word "zoetrope" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from two Greek words: "zoe", meaning "life", and "trope", meaning "turning" or "turn". So, "zoetrope" literally translates to "life-turning" or "wheel of life". This name was chosen because the zoetrope is a device that creates the illusion of motion or life when images are viewed through the spinning cylinder. It was first coined by the inventor of the zoetrope, William George Horner, in the 19th century.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
