ENGLISH
REFERENCE

photographic

adj.
US //ˌfoʊtəˈɡɹæfɪk// UK //fˌəʊtəɡɹˈæfɪk// pho·to·graph·ic
  1. 1 related to photography (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    connected to the art or process of taking and developing pictures.

    relating to the process, equipment, or art of producing images through the action of light on a sensitive surface.

    Example

    The shop sells cameras, lenses, and other photographic equipment.

    Example

    The exhibition showcased various photographic techniques, ranging from traditional film development to modern digital manipulation.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun.
  2. 2 extremely detailed (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describing a memory or a picture that is very clear and accurate.

    characterized by extreme detail or accuracy, especially regarding mental recall.

    Example

    She has a photographic memory and can remember every page of the book.

    Example

    His photographic recall of the crime scene provided the investigators with several leads that had been overlooked during the initial sweep.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the phrase 'photographic memory'.
Origin

From photo- + -graphic or photograph + -ic.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026