cinematic

[ sin-uh-mat-ik ]

adjective

1. having to do with movies, as either an industry or an art form:

   The book explores Andy Warhol's cinematic work, focusing on ten films in detail.

2. (of a movie) showing a high level of artistry; grand and visually impressive:

   This film is filled with sweeping, cinematic shots of the surrounding countryside, to the point where the setting almost becomes a third character.

3. having qualities or using techniques associated with good movies, such as drama, emotional intensity, visual or sonic artistry, epic narrative, etc.:

   Poetic and strikingly cinematic, her exquisitely written novel illuminates the strange tightrope we are all walking in the radically altered landscape post-9/11.

noun

1. (in a video game) a short video or scripted event scene between stages of interactive play, often to introduce a new level, develop a character, or advance the plot:

   This year's NHL game has a lot of the same animations, cinematics between faceoffs, commentary tracks, and graphics.

Other Words From

• cin·e·mat·i·cal·ly adverb
• un·cin·e·mat·ic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cinematic¹

cinemat(ograph) ( def ) + -ic

Example Sentences

Ultimately, much of the material in the book, including Hughes’ cinematic escape from prison and multiple grueling hunger strikes, was cut so that the Price sisters’ journey of radicalization and regret would take center stage.

From Los Angeles Times

The two-time Oscar nominee, known for his roles as William James in “The Hurt Locker” and the arrow-slinging Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, will head the nearly 100-year-old parade.

From Los Angeles Times

His role as Spider-Man saw him star in three of the superhero films alongside Zendaya, as well as other appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

From BBC

Audiard plays with cinematic form by often plucking his characters from the real world in the middle of a song.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s a movie studio tour for every type of Angeleno, whether you’re a seeker of movie trivia, cinematic magic or that perfect Central Perk selfie.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• pictorial
• visual
• vivid