Darkroom

/ˈdɑrk.ruːm/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A room that is completely darkened in order to allow for the development of photographic film or prints.
The photographer spent hours in the darkroom, carefully developing his negatives.
A space used for creating or processing photographs in which light is controlled to prevent exposure.
She set up her darkroom in the basement to keep her photography hobby private.
A room fitted with equipment for processing photographic film, typically with red or safe light.
After taking the pictures, he rushed to the darkroom to print them before the colors faded.

Etymology

Combination of 'dark' and 'room'; first used in the context of photography in the early 20th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in the darkroom
In a space where photo development takes place.
darkroom techniques
Methods used in film processing and print making.
exit the darkroom
To stop working in a hidden or secluded space, metaphorically coming into the light.

Related Words

photography
The art or practice of taking and processing photographs.
exposure
The amount of light that reaches the film or sensor, important in photography.
development
The process of treating exposed film or paper to create visible images.

Slang Meanings

A place where secrets are kept or things are hidden.
Their relationship was like a darkroom, full of things they didn't share with others.
Figurative reference to a situation where little is known or revealed.
That topic is still in the darkroom; we're waiting for more information before we discuss it.