noun

Elmo

EHL-moh

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Elmo (noun) means a document camera — a device that projects a live image of a paper, book, or object onto a screen, common in classrooms. Example: “The teacher put the worksheet under the Elmo so the whole class could see it.”

noun

A document camera — a device that projects a live image of a paper, book, or object onto a screen, common in classrooms.

"The teacher put the worksheet under the Elmo so the whole class could see it."

"Instead of photocopying the diagram, she just showed it on the Elmo."

How to use Elmo

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA brand name that became a generic word for classroom document cameras, in the same way "Hoover" became a word for vacuum cleaners in the UK.

When to use it

Mostly heard in British and Irish schools; in American English "document camera" is more common.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: Elmos

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The teacher put the worksheet under the _____ so the whole class could see it.

Etymology

From an Italian contraction of Erasmo, cognate with Erasmus. Also a German short form of Elmar. * By folk etymology seen as a short form of Elmer.

Rhymes for Elmo

Anselmo

See all rhymes for Elmo →

Frequently asked questions

What does “Elmo” mean?

The word “Elmo” means a document camera — a device that projects a live image of a paper, book, or object onto a screen, common in classrooms. In plain terms, a brand name that became a generic word for classroom document cameras, in the same way "Hoover" became a word for vacuum cleaners in the UK.

How do you pronounce “Elmo”?

“Elmo” is pronounced EHL-moh (/ˈɛlmoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “Elmo” in a sentence?

Here is “Elmo” used in a sentence: “The teacher put the worksheet under the Elmo so the whole class could see it.”

What part of speech is “Elmo”?

“Elmo” is a noun.