CLAPPERBOARD Meaning and
Definition
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A clapperboard, sometimes referred to as a clapboard or slate, is a tool used in the film and television industry to mark the synchronization of sound and image during the process of recording. It consists of a rectangular, flat board made of durable material, typically wood or plastic, with a hinged clapstick on top. The board usually has a white surface with black horizontal lines and clearly visible alphanumeric information, such as the production title, scene number, and take number, that can be written or printed on it.
The purpose of a clapperboard is to provide a visual and audible cue at the beginning of each shot or take. When filming starts, the clapstick is raised and then brought down, creating a distinctive clapping sound that produces a sharp spike in the audio waveform. This sound spike serves as a reference point for post-production editors, helping them synchronize the audio and video tracks precisely. Additionally, the camera is often focused on the clapperboard before the scene begins, allowing editors to easily identify the specific take.
Apart from facilitating editing processes, clapperboards are also helpful for the director and the crew during filming. By visually displaying essential information about each shot, clapperboards ensure accurate documentation, efficient communication, and smooth coordination among the team members involved in the production. As a result, clapperboards play a crucial role in maintaining organization, precision, and overall professionalism in the filmmaking process.
Common Misspellings for CLAPPERBOARD
- xlapperboard
- vlapperboard
- flapperboard
- dlapperboard
- ckapperboard
- cpapperboard
- coapperboard
- clzpperboard
- clspperboard
- clwpperboard
- clqpperboard
- claoperboard
- clalperboard
- cla-perboard
- cla0perboard
- clapoerboard
- claplerboard
- clap-erboard
- cloberboard
Etymology of CLAPPERBOARD
The word "clapperboard" originated from the combination of two separate terms: "clapper" and "board".
The term "clapper" refers to the small, hinged device with two wooden paddles that make a sharp noise when struck together. The clapper was traditionally used in theaters to mark the beginning of a scene or an act. This action was called "clapping".
The term "board" simply refers to a flat, rigid piece of material. It was common for the clapper to be mounted on a wooden board to provide stability and control.
Thus, when film production started in the late-19th century, a similar device was employed to synchronize picture and sound. This device, consisting of a hinged board with the clapper at one end, was called a "clapperboard".
Similar spelling words for CLAPPERBOARD
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