hologram

noun

ho·​lo·​gram ˈhō-lə-ˌgram  ˈhä- 

: a three-dimensional image reproduced from a pattern of interference produced by a split coherent beam of radiation (such as a laser)

also : the pattern of interference itself

Did you know?

A hologram is a picture of a "whole" object, showing it in three dimensions. We've all seen cheap hologram images on credit cards and ID cards (where they help prevent copying). Far more impressive are large holograms that take the form of a ghostly 3-D moving figure that you can walk around to see from all angles. Holograms were invented in 1947 but only perfected after the invention of the laser in 1960. Today they're used in such technologies as compact-disc players and checkout scanners, and holograms can be created of the inside of live internal organs to permit doctors to examine the organs in great detail. And soon televisions with hologram technology may enable us to watch in "3-D".

Examples of hologram in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The presentation of the spring 2026 collection on Wednesday during Milan Fashion Week will set the basis for the expansion of MCM’s ready-to-wear line and feature a couple of gimmicks sure to win over attendees, including a floating hologram. —Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 23 Sep. 2025

The hologram hails from Proto Hologram, the company that recently helped launch an interactive mirror from The Conjuring in 47 malls, as well as Hyperreal, a company known for creating realistic avatars. —Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 19 Sep. 2025

Beyond scanning IDs, document verification systems can now look for dynamic security features like holograms or microtext, ensuring an image or deepfake can’t pass as the real thing. —Ihar Kliashchou, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025

Visitors also will be able to engage with a life-sized hologram of Goodall. —Virginia Brown, Charlotte Observer, 11 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

holo- + -gram

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hologram

• abraham
• anagram
• cablegram
• cofferdam
• dendrogram
• diagram
• diaphragm
• epigram
• hexagram
• histogram
• instagram
• kilogram

Kids Definition

hologram

noun

ho·​lo·​gram ˈhō-lə-ˌgram  ˈhäl-ə- 

: a three-dimensional picture made by a complex pattern of light (as laser light)

Medical Definition

hologram

noun

ho·​lo·​gram ˈhō-lə-ˌgram  ˈhäl-ə- 

: a three-dimensional image reproduced from a pattern of interference produced by a split coherent beam of radiation (as from a laser)

also : the pattern of interference itself