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screen
/skriːn/
protective barrier or display device
She put a screen on the window to keep bugs out.
A mesh barrier preventing insects from entering.
Technology
technical
A flat surface on which images or information are displayed, especially in electronic devices.
The laptop's screen is cracked and needs replacement.
The display surface of the device is damaged.
She adjusted the brightness of her phone screen.
The digital display on her mobile device.
Commonly used for LCD, OLED, or other display technologies.
general
A protective barrier or partition, often made of fabric or mesh.
A window screen keeps mosquitoes away.
A mesh covering over an opening.
The privacy screen in the office cubicle.
A partition providing visual separation.
Can also refer to physical barriers in architecture or design.
general
To conceal, protect, or separate by means of a barrier.
The trees screen the house from the road.
The vegetation blocks the view.
She screened her face from the sun.
She shielded herself using a barrier.
Often used with objects or people as the subject.
Medicine
Medical
To examine or test someone for a particular condition.
All passengers were screened at the airport.
They were checked for prohibited items or health risks.
The doctor screened her for cancer.
He conducted tests to detect early signs.
Common in healthcare and security contexts.
Collocations
touchscreena screen that responds to touchscreen timeduration spent using electronic screensscreen savera moving image that appears on a screen when inactivescreen playa script for a movie or TV showscreen shotan image captured from a screen
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing meanings
When you encounter 'screen,' ask: Is it about a display (technology), a physical barrier (architecture), or an action (testing/protecting)? The context usually clarifies the meaning.
Gold Rule
Context is key
The word 'screen' changes meaning based on whether it refers to technology, protection, or examination. Always check the surrounding words for clues.
Word Origin
From Old French *escren* (14th century), meaning 'a protective barrier,' likely derived from Frankish *skrank* 'barrier.' The sense of 'display surface' emerged in the 20th century with the rise of electronic devices.
Usage Notes
The word 'screen' is highly versatile and context-dependent. In modern usage, it often refers to digital displays (e.g., TV, phone, computer screens), but retains older meanings related to protection or concealment. Always consider the context to determine the intended meaning.
Word Breakdown
screen
the whole word
rootEnglish Dictionary