webcam: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal/Neutral
Quick answer
What does “webcam” mean?
A digital camera connected to a computer or network, used to transmit live video, especially over the internet.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A digital camera connected to a computer or network, used to transmit live video, especially over the internet.
1. A camera used for video calls, conferences, or live streaming. 2. The live video feed from such a camera. 3. The technology or functionality of capturing video for online use.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is identical. Usage and meaning are uniform. Pronunciation of 'cam' may be slightly more clipped in British English.
Connotations
Neutral in both. Associated with communication, surveillance, or content creation.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “webcam” in a Sentence
have a + webcamturn on/off the + webcamuse a + webcamconnect a + webcamlook at the + webcamVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “webcam” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We'll webcam with the team at 3 p.m.
- They used to webcam every weekend.
American English
- Let's webcam later tonight.
- He webcammed his entire setup process.
adverb
British English
- [Not typically used as an adverb]
American English
- [Not typically used as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- The webcam quality was poor.
- A webcam interview is scheduled.
American English
- She needs a webcam upgrade.
- The webcam feed froze.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for video conferencing and remote meetings.
Academic
Used for online lectures, presentations, and student consultations.
Everyday
Used for video calls with friends and family, and for live streaming hobbies.
Technical
A peripheral device with specifications like resolution, frame rate, and field of view.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “webcam”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “webcam”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “webcam”
- Incorrect: 'a webcam' as a plural (Correct: webcams). Incorrect: 'web cam' as two words (Correct: webcam).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a single, closed compound word: 'webcam'.
Yes, informally. 'To webcam' means to communicate or broadcast using a webcam.
A webcam is designed for continuous or frequent live connection to a computer/network. A standard digital camera is primarily for standalone photo/video capture.
Most operating systems have built-in drivers, but specific applications (like Zoom, OBS) are needed to actually use the webcam for calls or recording.
A digital camera connected to a computer or network, used to transmit live video, especially over the internet.
Webcam is usually informal/neutral in register.
Webcam: in British English it is pronounced /ˈwɛbkam/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈwɛbˌkæm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms directly based on 'webcam']”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
WEB + CAM(era): A CAMera for the WEB.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE EYES OF THE COMPUTER.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate definition of 'webcam'?