# cam

/ˈkæm/ (US) · /kˈæm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cam
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Senses

### 1. camera

noun · CEFR B1 · Informal

a short way to say camera, especially one used for the internet.

For teachers: a clipping of 'camera', frequently used in the context of webcams or digital recording devices.

- He bought a high-quality cam so his followers could see him clearly during the stream.
- The security system utilizes a high-definition cam mounted above the entrance to monitor all incoming and outgoing traffic in real time.

### 2. mechanical part

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a shaped piece of metal in a machine that turns and moves another part.

For teachers: a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage used to transform rotary motion into linear motion.

- The engine's cam pushes the valves open at exactly the right time.
- The engineer adjusted the profile of the cam to ensure the intake valves opened with greater precision during high-speed operation.

### 5. to use a webcam

verb · CEFR C1 · Informal · Slang

to use a webcam to talk to or show yourself to someone online.

For teachers: to broadcast or communicate via a webcam, often in a live-streaming or chat-room context.

- They decided to cam for an hour since they hadn't seen each other in weeks.
- The performer began to cam nightly, building a dedicated audience through interactive live sessions and real-time requests.

## Examples

- The engine uses a cam to open the valves.
- The mechanic noticed that a worn cam was preventing the machine from cycling at the correct speed.
- In a traditional internal combustion engine, the profile of each cam determines exactly how long the intake and exhaust valves remain open during the combustion cycle.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.