webcam
WEHB-kam
Webcam (noun) means a small video camera that streams live footage over a computer network, especially the internet. Example: “She joined the meeting with her webcam turned off.”
noun
1
A small video camera that streams live footage over a computer network, especially the internet.
"She joined the meeting with her webcam turned off."
"As Covid-19 lockdowns took effect around the world, millions turned to remote working and organising virtual hangouts with friends. Overnight, webcams went from mundane computer accessories to gold dust."
— Chris Baraniuk, No end to Covid-19 webcam shortage (2020)
verb
1
To communicate or broadcast using a webcam.
"They webcammed the entire wedding for relatives overseas."
How to use webcam
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small camera used for live video, usually built into or plugged into a computer.
Common pairings
webcam footage
built-in webcam
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Word forms
- Plural
- webcams
- Third person singular
- webcams
- Past tense
- webcammed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She joined the meeting with her _____ turned off.
Etymology
A blend of "web" and "cam" (short for "camera").
Frequently asked questions
What does “webcam” mean?
The word “webcam” means a small video camera that streams live footage over a computer network, especially the internet. In plain terms, a small camera used for live video, usually built into or plugged into a computer.
How do you pronounce “webcam”?
“Webcam” is pronounced WEHB-kam (/ˈwɛbˌkæm/ in IPA).
How do you use “webcam” in a sentence?
Here is “webcam” used in a sentence: “She joined the meeting with her webcam turned off.”
What part of speech is “webcam”?
Depending on how it is used, “webcam” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “webcam” a common word?
“Webcam” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “webcam” have?
“Webcam” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small video camera that streams live footage over a computer network, especially the internet.
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