rotoscope

[ roh-toh-skohp ]

noun

1. Movies, Graphic Arts. a device that traces live-action footage and transforms it into animated sequences, used mostly in the 20th century before being replaced by digital technology.
2. Digital Technology. a software application that merges live-action footage with digital animation and other graphics to create composite images.

verb (used with object)

, ro·to·scoped, ro·to·scop·ing.

1. Movies, Graphic Arts. to trace (live-action footage) and transform it into animated sequences.
2. Digital Technology. to merge (elements of live action and digital graphics) by utilizing a software application that creates composite images.

rotoscope

/ ˈrəʊtəˌskəʊp /

noun

1. a projection device that allows images from live-action films to be traced to create an animated sequence

verb

1. tr to create (the outline of an object) for manipulation in an animated film sequence

Word History and Origins

Origin of rotoscope¹

First recorded in 1935–40; roto ( def ) + -scope ( def )

Example Sentences

“In many cases when a rotoscope is used, reality is re-created,” Yamashita says.

From Los Angeles Times

The writer-director Richard Linklater uses similar dreamy rotoscope animation as his earlier films “Waking Life” and “A Scanner Darkly,” and this nostalgic tale is narrated by Jack Black, who tells the story from the point of view of a grown-up Stan.

From New York Times

It was so rough that there were times when he was having to personally narrate, and it was all on a rotoscope, which is sort of like cutting and pasting.

From New York Times

In addition to the second season of “Undone,” the acclaimed original that uses rotoscope animation, Amazon has the comic book adaptation “Invincible,” the L.A.-set “Fairfax” and the Dungeons & Dragons-inspired “Legend of Vox Machina” in its pipeline.

From Los Angeles Times

Maitland used rotoscope animation in “The Eyes of Me” about blind teens, and in “Tower.”

From Los Angeles Times