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.
Growing up surrounded by Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal, the Muppets, and the broader special effects industry of the ’80s and ’90s left a lasting impression on Toby. Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026 Umba, the movement specialist underneath the simian special effects, is convincing. Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 9 Jan. 2026 In The Scenario, reporter Kirbie Johnson takes readers behind the scenes of the buzziest movies and TV shows to reveal how the best wigs, special effects makeup, and more are created. Kirbie Johnson, Allure, 6 Jan. 2026 Kubrick would receive the Academy Award for special effects in 1969, the only Oscar of his sterling career. Mike Barnes, HollywoodReporter, 5 Jan. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Special effects.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special%20effects. Accessed 19 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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