time-lapse

adjective \ ˈtīm-ˌlaps \

Definition of time-lapse

: of, relating to, or constituting a motion picture made so that when projected a slow action (such as the opening of a flower bud) appears to be speeded up

See time-lapse defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of time-lapse

1927

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

NEW! Time Traveler

TIME-LAPSE Defined for English Language Learners

time-lapse

adjective

Definition of time-lapse for English Language Learners

—used to describe a way of filming something in which many photographs are taken over a long period of time and are shown quickly in a series so that a slow action (such as the opening of a flower bud) appears to happen quickly