Word
screensaver
Definitions
01moving image during inactivity
n. a program that displays moving pictures or patterns on a screen when the computer is left idle.
n. a computer program that replaces a static display with moving images or patterns after a period of inactivity to prevent screen damage or for aesthetic purposes.
“He set his screensaver to show a slideshow of his recent holiday photos.”
“Modern operating systems often include a variety of pre-installed screensavers, ranging from abstract geometric patterns to high-definition nature photography.”
Usage
Usually used as a countable noun.
02background image
n. the picture you see on the main screen of your phone or computer.
n. the static background image displayed on a device's home or lock screen.
“She has a picture of her cat as the screensaver on her phone.”
“Although technically a wallpaper, many casual users refer to the static image on their smartphone lock screen as a screensaver.”
Informal
Usage
Commonly used in informal speech to mean 'wallpaper', though technically inaccurate.
Pitfall
I need to change my phone's screensaver image.
I need to change my phone's wallpaper.
Technically, a screensaver is a moving image that appears when you aren't using the device, while a static picture is called a wallpaper.
Teaching tip
Learners should be aware that while 'wallpaper' is the correct technical term for a static background, many native speakers use 'screensaver' for both.
Synonyms
Etymology
A compound formed from the noun screen and the agent noun saver. The term describes the original technical function of the software, which was to prevent permanent damage to cathode-ray tube monitors.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/screensaver