underexpose

verb

un·​der·​ex·​pose ˌən-dər-ik-ˈspōz How to pronounce underexpose (audio)
underexposed; underexposing; underexposes

transitive verb

: to expose insufficiently
especially : to expose (something, such as film) to insufficient radiation (such as light)
underexposure noun

Examples of underexpose in a Sentence

The film was underexposed and the pictures came out too dark.
Recent Examples on the Web Bright, reflective snow can trick your light meter, causing auto exposure to underexpose and create gray snow. Washington Post, 11 Nov. 2021 Often, if too much bright sky gets into the scene, the camera’s meter will try to prevent it from blowing out and will then underexpose the subject’s face. Popular Science, 27 May 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'underexpose.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underexpose was in 1861

Dictionary Entries Near underexpose

Cite this Entry

“Underexpose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underexpose. Accessed 1 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

underexpose

verb
un·​der·​ex·​pose ˌən-də-rik-ˈspōz How to pronounce underexpose (audio)
: to expose for less time than is needed
the film was underexposed
underexposure noun
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