telephoto lens

noun

, Photography.

1. a lens constructed so as to produce a relatively large image with a focal length shorter than that required by an ordinary lens producing an image of the same size: used to photograph small or distant objects.

telephoto lens

/ ˈtɛlɪˌfəʊtəʊ /

noun

1. a compound camera lens in which the focal length is greater than that of a simple lens of the same dimensions and thus produces a magnified image of a distant object See also zoom lens

Word History and Origins

Origin of telephoto lens¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Sometimes she was using a short lens when she should have been using a telephoto lens and vice versa.

From Los Angeles Times

Sporting a telephoto lens with her camera, Philbin now can identify individual whales from their fins and tails and is second to Muul in sorting sighting tips and sending alerts.

From Seattle Times

As I didn't want to risk disturbing the potoo into flight, I photographed it with a long telephoto lens.

From BBC

But they set aside for me this new camera she owned with a telephoto lens.

From Los Angeles Times

Those new iPhones coming out with an improved telephoto lens will get plenty of use by fans showing up to Mission League basketball games this winter, considering how many celebrities might be making appearances.

From Los Angeles Times