# film

/ˈfɪɫm/ (US) · /fˈɪlm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/film
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 3. a thin layer

noun · CEFR B2

a very thin layer of something on a surface.

For teachers: a thin coating or layer of a substance, often liquid or oily, covering a surface.

- A thin film of oil was floating on top of the water in the puddle.
- The morning frost had left a delicate film of ice over the windshield, requiring several minutes of defrosting before it was safe to drive.

Usage: Usually followed by the preposition 'of'.

### 4. to record video

verb · CEFR A2

to use a camera to record moving images.

For teachers: to capture moving images on a recording medium, whether digital or analog.

- They plan to film the wedding ceremony so they can watch it later.
- The documentary crew spent three months in the rainforest to film the rare birds during their nesting season.

Usage: Can be used with or without a direct object.

## Examples

- I need to buy a roll of film for my old camera.
- Before digital cameras became popular, photographers had to develop their film in a dark room using special chemicals.
- Despite the convenience of digital sensors, many professional photographers still prefer the organic grain and superior dynamic range offered by large-format black-and-white film.

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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.