visual effect

American  

[vizh-oo-uhl i-fekt] / ˈvɪʒ u əl ɪˈfɛkt /

noun

Movies, Television.

1. Usually visual effects a special effect that is added to a film or video in post-production, as computer-generated imagery. VFX

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Etymology

Origin of visual effect

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

But the visual effect that best expresses the movie’s “punk” personality might be Krypto, the superdog — or superbad dog.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

Instead its "load-based" EA permit says that discharges should not have "adverse effects" on plants or animals in the water and that there should be "no significant adverse visual effect".

From BBC • May 10, 2025

It created the visual effect of more than doubling what Trump was able to turn, despite covering his ear with a comically oversized bandage and everything.

From Salon • Aug. 21, 2024

Made by encasing African statuettes in polyurethane resin to compelling visual effect, the works are remarkable.

From New York Times • May 9, 2023

The sky was a mere block to allow a visual effect on the horizon: sunlight flooding the ocean, the vertical edges between light and shadow perfectly distinct.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel