THAUMATROPE Meaning and
Definition
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A thaumatrope is a toy or device that consists of a disc or card with different images on each side, attached to two strings or sticks. When the strings or sticks are twirled rapidly between the fingers, the disc or card spins, causing the two images to blend together, creating the illusion of a single image or animation. The word "thaumatrope" is derived from the Greek words "thauma" meaning "wonder" and "tropos" meaning "turning", emphasizing the amusement and fascination it brings.
The concept of the thaumatrope was developed in the 19th century and it became popular during the Victorian era, captivating children and adults alike with its simple yet captivating optical illusion. Common designs for thaumatropes include a bird and a cage, a horse and a rider, or a fish and a fishbowl, although extensive variations can be found.
The thaumatrope operates on the principle of the persistence of vision, which refers to the way the human eye retains an image for a fraction of a second, blending multiple frames together to form a continuous image. This scientific phenomenon allows the thaumatrope to create the illusion of motion by displaying two separate images in rapid succession.
Today, the thaumatrope remains a popular novelty item and educational tool, often used to explain persistence of vision or as a hands-on activity to teach children about visual perception. Its simplistic yet intriguing design continues to capture the imagination of individuals of all ages, showcasing the timeless wonder of this classic optical toy.
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An optical instr. or toy for showing the persistence of an impression upon the eye after the luminous object has been withdrawn.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for THAUMATROPE
- rhaumatrope
- fhaumatrope
- ghaumatrope
- yhaumatrope
- 6haumatrope
- 5haumatrope
- tgaumatrope
- tbaumatrope
- tnaumatrope
- tjaumatrope
- tuaumatrope
- tyaumatrope
- thzumatrope
- thsumatrope
- thwumatrope
- thqumatrope
- thaymatrope
- thahmatrope
- thajmatrope
- thaimatrope
Etymology of THAUMATROPE
The word "thaumatrope" comes from two Greek words: "thauma", meaning "wonder", and "tropos", meaning "turn". Hence, the literal translation of "thaumatrope" is "wonder turner" or "wonder wheel". The word was coined in the early 19th century when this optical toy was invented.
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