celluloid

noun

cel·​lu·​loid ˈsel-yə-ˌlȯid 

1

: a tough flammable thermoplastic composed essentially of cellulose nitrate and camphor

2

: a motion-picture film

a work … making its third appearance on celluloid

—John McCarten

celluloid adjective

Examples of celluloid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The immaculate print appeared to this layman’s eye to look about as sharp as contemporary digital Imax, but with the celluloid origins and print adding additional richness. —Chris Willman, Variety, 30 Apr. 2025

But the distinctive and immersive nature of his cinematography comes from thousands of small details, all meticulously arranged, produced and captured on celluloid film. —Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 Apr. 2025

In the 1970s and 1980s, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg regularly relied on the genius of John Williams to elevate their celluloid visions from great to magic, with his iconic music for films such as Star Wars, E.T., and Indiana Jones. —Benny Har-Even, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2025

Yes, the musical rests on the identity crisis of a smudge of inked celluloid. —Jesse Green, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

from Celluloid, a trademark

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for celluloid

• adenoid
• alkaloid
• amoeboid
• amyloid
• aneroid
• anthropoid
• arachnoid
• asteroid
• benzenoid
• carcinoid
• coronoid
• humanoid

Kids Definition

celluloid

noun

cel·​lu·​loid ˈsel-(y)ə-ˌlȯid 

1

: a tough flammable plastic

2

: a motion-picture film

watch a western on celluloid