caption

[ kap-shuhn ]

noun

1. a title or explanation for a picture or illustration, as in a magazine, newspaper, or book.
2. a heading or title, as of a chapter, article, or page.
3. Movies, Television, Digital Technology.
   1. a transcription or translation of dialogue and a written description of other audio elements, as sound effects, music, or atmospheric sounds, displayed as a graphic overlay on the lower part of the screen in a television program, film, video, or video game.
   2. subtitle ( def 3a ).
   3. a title or annotation displayed as a graphic overlay on the screen in a television program, film, video, or video game, as to set the scene, name a location, or specify a time or date.
4. Law. the heading of a legal document stating the time, place, etc., of execution or performance.

verb (used with object)

1. to supply a caption or captions for:

   to caption a photograph.

caption

/ ˈkæpʃən /

noun

1. a title, brief explanation, or comment accompanying an illustration; legend
2. a heading, title, or headline of a chapter, article, etc
3. graphic material, usually containing lettering, used in television presentation
4. another name for subtitle
5. the formal heading of a legal document stating when, where, and on what authority it was taken or made

verb

1. to provide with a caption or captions

Other Words From

• cap·tion·less adjective
• mis·cap·tion verb (used with object)
• sub·cap·tion noun
• su·per·cap·tion noun
• un·cap·tioned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of caption¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English capcio(u)n “seizure,” from Latin captiōn- (stem of captiō ), equivalent to capt(us) “taken” ( captive ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of caption¹

C14 (meaning: seizure, an arrest; later, heading of a legal document): from Latin captiō a seizing, from capere to take

Example Sentences

Fox’s Instagram caption seemingly references her previous miscarriage, which she wrote about in her 2023 poetry collection, “Pretty Boys Are Poisonous.”

From Los Angeles Times

After the election, however, she posted the photo of a weeping Lady Liberty with the caption, "Despair is not an option."

From Salon

Later that night, Lasik.com took to X and posted a photo of the play, with the caption “Better Vision. Better Calls” and a link to the offer in the comments.

From Los Angeles Times

"Paws and take a look!" read the Calm caption.

From Salon

The video closed out Beyonce's costume dress-up with the caption "Happy Beylloween."

From Salon

Related Words

• inscription
• subtitle