Meaning & Definition of word "Screen"

Screen

/skriːn/

noun:

  • 1. A flat panel or surface on which images or videos are displayed.
    • Example: We watched the movie on a large screen in the theater.
  • 2. A protective or decorative surface that filters or blocks unwanted elements.
    • Example: The porch has a screen to keep the bugs out.
  • 3. An examination or test to detect certain conditions or diseases.
    • Example: She went for a cancer screening at the hospital.

verb:

  • 1. To examine or check for suitability or to detect something.
    • Example: The team will screen all applicants for the job.
  • 2. To show a film or video to an audience.
    • Example: They will screen the documentary at the film festival.
  • 3. To protect or shield something from view or interference.
    • Example: They screened the windows to block the sunlight.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'escren', from Latin 'screenare' meaning 'to shield'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

on screen:

visible on a display device.

screen test:

a test or performance used to evaluate actors.

screen out:

to exclude or eliminate something.

screen for:

to check or examine for a specific condition.

Related Words

monitor:

A device used to display visual output from a computer.

projector:

A device that projects an image or video onto a screen.

filter:

A material or device that allows certain things to pass through while blocking others.

Slang Meanings of screen

Meaning: To 'screen' someone means to investigate their background.

Example Sentence: We're going to screen the applicants before interviews.

Meaning: Screen time refers to the amount of time spent using devices with screens.

Example Sentence: Kids have too much screen time these days.