special effects

plural noun

: visual or sound effects introduced into a movie, video recording, or taped television production

Examples of special effects in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Carter’s process begins with detailed scene-by-scene rundowns cataloging locations, times of day, characters, props, graphics, and special effects. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 19 Oct. 2025 The ride will achieve its 72 mph by using 4,100 feet of elaborate track that begins in the upper level of the park across from the entrance to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the area that previously hosted Universal Hollywood’s special effects and animal shows. Tom Tapp, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2025 The Knott’s Scary Farm interactive lantern can trigger special effects at more than 100 activation locations. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 Oct. 2025 The storied production included building a scale model of the ship, boundary-pushing special effects and expeditions to the actual Titanic wreck. Jon Landau, HollywoodReporter, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for special effects

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of special effects was in 1907

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Special effects.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special%20effects. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!